This is a public statement by The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada published in the National Post and in the Ottawa Citizen.

In awarding Dr. Henry Morgentaler the Order of Canada, an honour has been bestowed upon someone who participates in, promotes and, for many, symbolizes the moral tragedy of abortion.

It is a reminder of the shameful reality that Canada is one of the few countries in the world without laws protecting the most vulnerable among us — unborn children. This vacuum is not the result of consensus. This is not about health care but a lack of political leadership to reasonably address the full breadth of the issue.

For the millions of Canadians who celebrate the gift of life and the dignity of the human person at all stages of life, this is a very sad day.

By giving this award, the narrow interests of some and the misguided judgment of others have diminished Canada’s highest civilian honour. Knowing the controversial nature of this act, the process and the timing have discredited the institution. Rather than a day of celebration of what we share as Canadians, Canada Day 2008 has become a day of great sorrow for many that Canada would honour one rather than lament the loss of hundreds of thousands taken in the womb.

May this tragic decision serve to reinvigorate people of good will and cause us all to renew our commitment to champion the protection of all human life, to plead for the voiceless, and to care for the vulnerable amongst us.

Action you can take on Morgentaler’s appointment

Those who wish to express comment on Dr. Henry Morgentaler's appointment to the Order of Canada can write to Governor General Michaëlle Jean (Rideau Hall, 1 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A1) with copies to Prime Minister Stephen Harper (Office of the Prime Minister, 80 Wellington Street, Ottawa, ON K1A 0A2) and to your MP. Please remember to be polite and direct in your communication (see EFC guidelines on writing your MP). Letter writing is generally better than calling because letters create a permanent record.

Bruce J. Clemenger, is the president of The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada.

Originally published in The National Post, July 3, 2008, and in the Ottawa Citizen, July 8, 2008.

Related articles

Honouring a Remorseless Extremist
The Order of Canada is meant to honour an individual whose contribution to the nation all Canadians can take pride in” – Barbara Kay.

20 Years since Morgentaler – Nothing to Celebrate
Abortions are performed in Canada during all nine months of pregnancy, including partial birth abortion procedures.

Religious Group Returns 'Dishonoured' Order of Canada
An Order of Canada given to a woman for sainthood will be returned by the religious community she founded in protest over the same honour being given to an abortionist.

Used with permission.  Copyright © 2008 Christianity.ca.

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