|
July 17, 2008 |
The Bishops of Texas are working locally with Catholic Hospitals in their (arch)dioceses to investigate allegations of noncompliance with Church teaching. These allegations arise from anonymous sources which have yet to be independently verified.
In addition to state and federal laws, Catholic health care institutions are required to comply with the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services (ERD)—directives created by the Committee on Doctrine of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and approved by the entire body of US Bishops in June 2001. The ERD explicitly prohibits abortion and direct sterilization, two areas of noncompliance listed in the allegations. Church teaching is clear on the immorality of both of these practices.
See below for statements from individual Bishops:
Statement from Bishop Corrada, SJ., Diocese of Tyler
Although the Diocese of Tyler is blessed to have two faithful Catholic Hospitals serving our communities, Trinity Mother Frances in Tyler and Christus St. Michael in Texarkana, I was greatly saddened to hear of a report that alleges Catholic Hospitals have engaged in sterilizations procedures that are immoral. Both hospitals have been in contact with the Diocese of Tyler and are cooperating in assessing the matter.
The hospitals believe that their policies and procedures are in accords with the Ethical and Religious Directives which govern Catholic health care institutions in the United States. The sponsoring religious communities of Consecrated Life are committed to the teachings of the Catholic Church and have a deep respect for the sacred dignity of the human person. I am working through the Texas Catholic Conference in formulating an appropriate response, which will include an independent audit.
I remain supportive of our Catholic Hospitals and the Communities of Consecrated Life that support them. I encourage Catholics to allow some time for any issues to be identified and addressed. Persons with concerns can direct them to Rev. Gavin N. Vaverek, JCL, Promoter of Justice for our diocese.
|
