Baptists, Lutherans join Catholics in opposing embryonic research

Published: 2005-12-27

ST. LOUIS (CNS) -- As the debate on embryonic stem-cell research and human cloning continues as a hot topic in Missouri, several other Christian denominations in the state are voicing their opinions on the issue. The Missouri Baptist Convention has joined the Catholic bishops of Missouri in challenging an initiative that would amend the state constitution to allow embryonic stem-cell research and human cloning. In addition, the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod was preparing to release a report in January condemning embryonic stem-cell research and human cloning. The two actions are a sign that Christian denominations are becoming even more vocal in speaking out on an issue that they feel harms the sanctity of human life, said Deacon Larry Weber, executive director of the Missouri Catholic Conference, the public policy arm of the state's bishops. On Dec. 15 Cole County Judge Byron Kinder approved a motion by Missouri's Catholic bishops and the Missouri Baptist Convention to join a lawsuit challenging an initiative to constitutionally protect embryonic stem-cell research and human cloning.

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