The Sydney Synod recently passed the following motion affirming the sanctity of life, something our Synod shamefully failed to do despite having a published motion before it.
48th Synod of the Anglican Diocese of Sydney
Extract from Synod Proceedings for 21 October 2008
Motions: 34/08: Abortion
Noting recent renewed debate about abortion around Australia, this Synod –
a) affirms pregnancy and childbirth are part of God’s good plan for humankind,
b) affirms pregnancy is the privilege and responsibility of both the mother and the
father of the unborn person,
c) affirms the sanctity of life, even of the unborn child,
d) supports legislative and social changes which would reduce the number of
abortions in Australia, and
e) encourages and applauds health professionals who, for reasons of conscience, do
not promote, aid or assist in ending the life of the unborn, except where the
mother’s life is gravely at risk,
f) recognises the need of those who have knowingly participated in ending the life
of the unborn, especially women who have had abortions, to hear the wonderful
news of forgiveness in the death and resurrection of Christ,
g) encourages all Christians equally to make known Jesus’ love for all unborn
human life and judgement of those who end it, and his offer of forgiveness for
those who have done so.
Synod requests that the content of this motion be forwarded to the following persons –
the Prime Minister, the Federal Opposition Leader, Senator Guy Barnett of Tasmania,
the NSW Premier and Leader of the Opposition and the bishops of each of the Anglican
dioceses of Australia.
(Canon Sandy Grant 21/10/2008)
But, more than just talking about it and passing a motion, a group of younger Sydney evangelicals have made a practical response. See here:
http://www.freemoneyfornewlives.com.au/Ok, Melbourne Anglicans - what's your response?
