From praise to grief: How Christian denominations reacted to Supreme Court's abortion ruling

By Samantha Kamman, Christian Post Reporter Monday, June 27, 2022

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Some denominations, such as the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America, condemned the overturn of Roe. Presiding Bishop Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton issued a pastoral message referencing the denomination's 1991 social statement. The statement argues that "the number of induced abortions is a source of deep concern" but believes the practice should be legal.

"Many now find their moral agency restricted because federal law no longer guarantees access to legal and safe abortion," Eaton wrote. "They already face difficult moral questions, and the Supreme Court decision only adds to their anguish."'

Eaton believes that placing "decisions about abortion regulation at the state level encumbers and endangers the lives of all persons who need to make decisions about unexpected pregnancies."

"As our social statement reminds us, we have both the freedom and the obligation to serve neighbors in complex situations," Eaton added. "As a church, we are called at this moment to recognize and spiritually support people who are struggling with decisions around pregnancy."