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Forming those who form others

The Gospel of Life, Part 1

In this article we begin to examine Pope John Paul II’s presentation of the status of life issues in our times in his encyclical Evangelium Vitae.

‘The Gospel of Life (Evangelium Vitae) is at the heart of Jesus’ message’ (1.1). This opening line of Pope John Paul II’s eleventh encyclical letter makes it clear that Catholics are called to be ‘unconditionally pro-life’ (EV 28.1). This document explains with prophetic force, based on both faith and reason, what this means and why it is an essential aspect of Catholic faith and identity. The fact that this pro-life stance is viewed by many as ‘rigid’ or ‘narrow-minded’ is a reflection of the cultural climate of our times.

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Dr. Alan Schreck is a professor of theology at Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio, specializing in Catholic doctrine, Church history, and the teachings of Vatican II. He is the author of several books including The Essential Catholic Catechism, published in 1999; Vatican II: The Crisis and the Promise, published by St. Anthony Messenger Press in 2005. In 2004 his noted apologetic book, Catholic and Christian: An Explanation of Commonly Misunderstood Catholic Beliefs, was reprinted in a 20th Anniversary edition. His latest book is The Legacy of Pope John Paul II: The Central Teaching of His 14 Encyclical Letterswhich can be ordered through this website. He and his wife Nancy have five children and reside in Steubenville.

This article is from The Sower and may be copied for catechetical purposes only. It may not be reprinted in another published work without the permission of Maryvale Institute. Contact [email protected]

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