By Sarah Stewart, Juicy Ecumenism.
Bishop N.T. Wright’s recent comments condoning abortion in cases of rape, incest, and fetal abnormality continue to draw criticism. As discussed in a previous article, Wright spoke with Michael Bird on the “Ask NT Wright Anything” podcast where the topic of abortion was raised. As previously noted, Wright’s answer was pastorally wanting.
In the interview, Wright states, “…in cases of rape or cases of incest. There may be a very strong argument for saying this ought never to have happened and with sorrow because we do not want to do this in principle but with sorrow and a bit of shame the best thing to do is as soon as possible to terminate this pregnancy.”
This concession is disappointing. Abortion can’t take away the pain of rape or incest. It can, however, compound it. Wright notes that, particularly in the case of rape and incest, he wants to avoid anything that can be seen as “male bullying.” Women, however, do need male support and input. It is in fact one of the most significant determining factors for whether or not a woman will have an abortion.
Women know what it means to hear someone say their choice will be supported. It means having an abortion. Very few women are told that they are capable of having the baby and that they don’t have to go through the pregnancy alone. And this is an opportunity for the church to step in and show the love of Christ.
Having done Pro-Life work with post-abortive women and women who have been the victims of rape, many lament that no one close to them told them they could keep their baby. The people around them wanted to take the “nuanced” and “kind” approach. So, they tell the woman they will support her choice, and in doing so they convey to her that she really doesn’t have one.