Vatican Issues declaration on human dignity; addresses abortion, surrogacy, gender among others

The Vatican’s leading doctrinal office released a significant declaration on Monday, delving into the theme of human dignity and addressing a spectrum of contemporary concerns.

Titled “Dignitas Infinita,” which translates to “infinite dignity,” the declaration emerged from the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, underscoring the Church’s stance on crucial issues such as abortion, euthanasia, gender theory, and more.

Highlighting the paramount importance of upholding the dignity of every individual, irrespective of their characteristics, the declaration resonated with the teachings of the Church, stressing the need to promote human dignity amidst societal challenges.

Regarding contentious issues like abortion, euthanasia, and surrogacy, the dicastery expressed staunch opposition, echoing the teachings of past pontiffs, including St. John Paul II and Pope Francis. Emphasizing the sanctity of life from conception to natural death, the declaration condemned practices that threaten human dignity at various stages of life.

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Furthermore, the document scrutinized the rise of gender theory and its implications, cautioning against attempts to obscure the inherent differences between men and women. Rejecting the notion that gender is a mere social construct, the Vatican underscored the significance of acknowledging and respecting sexual differences as integral to human identity and dignity.

In the face of ongoing debates regarding gender ideology and transgender rights, the Vatican maintained a firm stance, asserting the dignity inherent in the natural order of creation. It warned against interventions such as sex-change procedures, citing risks to the unique dignity endowed upon individuals from conception.

Additionally, the declaration condemned discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation, emphasizing the imperative to denounce such acts as contrary to human dignity.

It called for solidarity and respect for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation, urging societies to uphold the inherent dignity of every human being.