Church Teaching On Infirtility

Question 1

Roman Catholic Church

Answer 1

Roman Catholic teaching supports the view that a marriage relationship should be open to children, but in a way that is in line with God’s intention for the creation of new life. Human beings should not be created in a laboratory. Processes which lead to the destruction of embryos are immoral, as human life begins at conception. In addition, the possible introduction of a ‘third person’ into the marriage
relationship is seen as adultery and therefore wrong.

Question 2

The Church of England.

Answer 2

The Church of England are not against the use of IVF techniques. However, they have expressed concern about whether treatment should be offered to same-sex couples and single women. In July 2003, the General Synod affirmed the sanctity of the human embryo and the need to treat it with profound respect. The Synod recognised there are different views among Christians on the morality of embryo

Question 3

The Methodist church

Answer 3

The Methodist Church believes it is right for scientists to try to learn more about causes and cures of infertility. It accepts using ‘spare’ embryos in medical research, but only up to 14
days after fertilisation.