Catholic Q&A
QUESTION
| How does the Church view women who have abortions? Are they excommunicated? Should a woman who has had an abortion ever receive communion again? Thank you Father. |
ANSWER
| A woman who had an abortion is in the same position as anyone who has committed a sin, in the sense that she is a child of God in need of repentance, reconciliation and healing. Once a person repents and receives the Sacrament of Reconciliation, she/he is reconciled with God and the Church and may participate fully in the Sacramental life of the Church, provided there are no other impediments. The next step is just as important and even more difficult...to forgive oneself! There are wonderful programs such as 'Rachel's Vineyard' (www.RachelsVineyard.org) which minister to women who have had abortions and help with the healing process. |
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