“It’s a wonderful development to work together with our international peers to bring the most up-to-date medical research into the space of Catholic social teaching. It is hoped this international collaboration might continue to flourish and serve as a resource for the Pontifical Academy for Life and the Church in these and other areas of bioethics and medicine into the future,” he said.
The critique centers on three main concerns. First, the doctors highlight “obscurity and confusion” in ETV’s language, which they argue could mislead the faithful on crucial Church teachings.
Second, they point out a lack of understanding of current scientific advancements and specific areas of medicine. Mathieson emphasized that ETV’s arguments appeared to ignore modern and highly effective natural family planning methods and advances in restorative reproductive medicine that align with Church ethics.
Third, the critique underscores contradictions between ETV and established Church teachings on contraception and assisted reproductive technologies, arguing that ETV’s recommendations could lead to a misinterpretation of Church doctrines on these vital bioethical issues.
Regarding the potential impact of this critique, Mathieson expressed hope for ongoing communication: “This article will hopefully serve as a vehicle for ongoing communication and dialogue with the Pontifical Academy for Life as well as with other agencies within the Church.”
The critique also addresses the vital role of the Pontifical Academy for Life in guiding the faithful on bioethical issues.
Mathieson highlighted the importance of adhering to the vision set by St. John Paul II, who instituted the academy in 1994. “In order to fulfill its vital mission in forming and informing the people and culture of our time, the Pontifical Academy for Life must be true to this vision. It is not a static vision but one which welcomes inquiry and initiative in the dynamism of creating a ‘culture of life,’” he told CNA.
The authors recommended that the Pontifical Academy for Life consult with Catholic medical associations, represented by FIAMC (a worldwide Catholics physicians association), to assist with future texts that provide moral guidance on Catholic medical practice and ethics issues.
“Our understanding, from our communications with the international Catholic medical associations affiliated with FIAMC, and through our involvement with international conferences and congresses, is that there is indeed a consensus with regard to these issues of marriage and sexuality, especially in regard to contraception and ARTs [assisted reproductive technologies],” Mathieson said.
For Catholics and medical professionals navigating issues surrounding fertility and procreation, Mathieson advised seeking out faithful Catholic general practitioners who can clarify medical and bioethical issues. He also recommended several organizations, such as the International Institute of Restorative Reproductive Medicine, that promote methods consistent with Church teachings.
Mathieson concluded by emphasizing the availability of quality fertility services in Australia that align with Church teachings. “We are indeed blessed with numerous quality fertility services in Australia,” he noted.
(Story continues below)
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
Credit: Source link
