General Assembly affirms use of fetal tissue for vital research
By Paula R. Kincaid, The Layman Online, June 16, 2001
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) approved the “Statement on the Ethical and Moral Implications of Stem Cell and Fetal Tissue Research,” which affirms the use of fetal tissue and embryonic tissue for vital research.
The approved resolution states that stem cells “could be used to treat diseases such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, spinal cord injuries, stroke, burns, heart diseases and diabetes. Using stem cells could reduce the dependence on organ donation and transplantation.”
Commissioners did amend the sentence “Those who oppose using stem cells derived from aborted fetuses argue that abortion for any reason is wrong,” to read, “Some of those who oppose using stem cells …” after an ecumenical delegate stated that he opposed stem cell research of fetal issue but believed that there were situations where abortion is needed. He said he did not think the assembly should pass a statement “that has such an obviously offensive statement in it.”
The statement passed with 88 percent of the vote.
In other business, the assembly, approved a commissioner’s resolution on conducting a churchwide dialogue on end-of-life issues by voice vote.
The action requests that the Office of Theology and Worship organize and host a national dialogue on theological issues related to end-of-life care during the years 2002-2003, including the articulation of a Biblical ethic within the bounds of historic Christian faith that encompasses both pastoral and palliative care.
It also urges presbyteries and congregations to follow-up on the national conference with similar dialogues in 2004-2005.
From these dialogues, the Office of Theology and Worship will prepare a compilation of resources consistent with the Reformed faith as expressed in the Confessions of the church, which will be submitted to the 218th assembly.
Commissioner Gerrit Dawson spoke in favor of the report, saying that “we know that some things are certain” including taxes and end of life. “There are people in our pews desperate to talk about end of life issues,” he said, adding that this gives the church a chance to talk about the issue from the grassroots up.