While some denominations may have a strong position one way or the other on the abortion issue, individual pastors and regional church bodies may have an entirely different position. This office is not aware of a single denomination that has moved toward the pro-abortion side in the last 15 years. The Roman Catholic Church has continuously and steadfastly opposed the legalization of abortion and has supported virtually all meaningful pro-life legislation and public policies. The bishops have testified before Congress on numerous occasions pleading for restoration of respect for all human life. The National Conference of Catholic Bishops has prepared several pastoral letters clearly defining the Catholic Church s pro-life position.
Most dioceses have active respect life offices and parish pro-life committees.
And a large number of dioceses also maintain hotlines and provide services to help women with problem pregnancies. The LCMS has called for development of pro-life educational material for all age levels. The Southern Baptist Convention initially called for legislation in 1971 that would allow for the possibility of abortions under such conditions as rape, incest, clear evidence of severe to fetal deformity, and carefully ascertained evidence of the likelihood of damage to the emotional, mental, and physical health of the mother. In 1976, the convention changed its position to oppose abortions used as a means of birth control. American Baptist Churches leaves abortion policy to local churches and individuals.