To put things more clearly, women are not incubators. Children are not products. Despite all our pride in our enlightened “progressive” society, we still haven’t learned that the human body is not for sale. Christian ethicists have been sounding the alarm on this issue for decades now, and they will continue to do so in the future. Ironically, the chaotic moral hellscape of The Handmaid’s Tale may arise, not from patriarchal, religious right-wingers who prize traditional moral values, but from wealthy Hollywood elites and, eventually, aspirational suburban couples who want babies but without suffering and sacrifice.
The struggle against the surrogacy industry may turn out to be long and difficult. Many Christians have received poor instruction on these issues and react viscerally against Biblically grounded arguments, especially if they or a loved one struggles with infertility. Even many pastors may find themselves poorly equipped to deal adequately with this discussion. But catechesis and clear teaching are paramount. In addition, the fight against this immoral juggernaut will become political. Conservatives may find sympathetic allies across the aisle who will quickly pick up on the exploitation of children and impoverished women. The first step is understanding—and making clear—what is at stake.
Read more at WORLD Opinions.
St. Jude's Anglican Church
We are a parish of the Reformed Episcopal Church. We have been worshiping together in the greater Richmond area for over a decade. We’d love to have you join us for Christian worship in the rich Anglican tradition.
