The future of Catholics in obstetrics and gynaecology.

At the conclusion of his address to an international meeting of Catholic obstetricians and gynaecologists in June, Pope John Paul II stated: "It is my fervent hope that, at the beginning of this new millennium, all Catholic medical and health care personnel, whether in research or practice, will commit themselves wholeheartedly to the service of human life. I trust that the local Churches will give due attention to the medical profession, promoting the ideal of unambiguous service to the great miracle of life, supporting obstetricians, gynaecologists, and health workers who respect the right to life by helping to bring them together for mutual support and the exchange of ideas and experiences."

Over 140 specialists from 40 countries attended the meeting and discussed the fundamental human right to be trained and to practise obstetrics and gynaecology according to conscience. The legalisation of abortion and the introduction of contraception over the last 30 years have had a profound effect on Catholics in training and in practice.

It has not been appreciated that many Catholic specialists have had from the very beginning of these developments to take a fundamental stand in defence of human life. This has caused them and their families considerable pain as their careers were ruined.

Few Catholics are now entering the specialty, and those that do face serious discrimination if they maintain a conscientious objection to the taking of human life. The consequences of this should be of considerable concern to the Church.

The meeting discussed a number of initiatives designed to "breathe" life back into the care of mothers, which it is hoped will receive the support of the Church throughout world. A second meeting will be held in October 2002.

Note: This report was sent in by Doctor Robert L. Walley, FRCSC, FRCOG, MPH (Harvard) Professor of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Memorial University, St. John's, NF, and Medical Director of MaterCare International. He took the initiative in organizing the Vatican conference.