May, 2005

To: Pastors of Churches and Clerks of Session Where There Is No Installed Pastor

Dear Friends:

The 216th General Assembly (2004) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) directed the Moderator of the 216th General Assembly (2004) and the Stated Clerk to send a pastoral letter to congregations on the issue of problem pregnancy. The Assembly instructed us to include four resources consistent with the policies of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), published by Women's Ministries, National Ministries Division:

• When No Choice Is Easy: For the Pregnant Woman
• When You Need the Wisdom of Solomon: Helping Others Face Problem Pregnancies
• There is Always a Father: Does the Father Have a Problem Too?
• When Pregnancy Involves Loss: Helping Others Face Problem Pregnancies

You will find these four resources, along with the most recent statement of the church's reproductive health policy, a Statement on Post-Viability and Late-Term Abortion, approved by the 215th General Assembly (2003), on the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)'s Web site at: www.pcusa.org/overture2004-10.

The policies of our denomination recognize that Presbyterians are divided over the issue of abortion. However, all Presbyterians can find common ground around a clear commitment to make abortion as unneeded and rare as possible. General Assemblies over the years have continued to provide guidance suggesting that such decisions should be made in the context of a faith community, and not through restrictive governmental legislation. Further, we can all affirm the need to support women and their partners as they confront the difficult life-circumstances that would cause them to consider such an option.

Our denomination has a longstanding policy to support women as they discern, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the best option for themselves and their families. At the same time, our General Assembly has affirmed that ending a pregnancy after the point of fetal viability is a matter of grave moral concern and may be undertaken only in the rarest of circumstances.

Please note that the 216th General Assembly (2004) reaffirmed adoption as a provision for women who deliver children for whom they are not able to care. We encourage your congregation to assist in seeking adoptive families within the household of faith. Problem pregnancy is a complex issue that concerns all of us.

General Assemblies have repeatedly recognized the multiplicity of factors that may influence a woman's choice, such as the health of the woman and fetus, economic circumstances and medical and pastoral advice. We trust you will use these resources and make them available to your congregation, as you offer counseling and tangible support for women facing difficult circumstances. Regardless of her decision, we ask that you stand by the woman and offer a community of loving support in her moment of need.

Yours in Christ's service,

Rick Ufford-Chase
Moderator of the 216th General Assembly (2004)

Clifton Kirkpatrick
Stated Clerk of the General Assembly