Why doesn the Hippocratic oath prevent doctors from performing abortions?
Before the time of Hippocrates, who lived before the time of Christ, a medical practitioner had a dual role. One was to kill and one was to cure. The great contribution of Hippocrates, which passed into the Christian era and continued for two millennia, was to separate the curing and killing functions of the physicians, hence the oath. Now, the oath of Hippocrates is no longer sworn by graduating medical students. With abortion, and the onrush of euthanasia, some doctors, tragically, have again assumed that dual role. Action: Pray (at this moment) that our U.S. medical schools will be led by ethical principles, formed by natural, moral law, and that their curriculums will include the reinstatement of the Hippocratic oath. Are you confused by an unplanned pregnancy, or do you need help with recovering from an abortion? Please call the church office and talk with a priest and/or call Project Rachel toll free at 1-877-908-1212.
