CHICAGO (ELCA) -- "Genetics! Where Do We Stand as Christians?" is a 68-page study document produced by the Division for Church in Society of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Biological research into heredity and the composition of human DNA has raised a host of theological, ethical, legal and social issues the study guide presents for Christians to consider.
"These issues may be complicated, but they are not beyond anyone's grasp and they effect everyone's future," said the Rev. Roger A. Willer, author of the guide and an associate for studies in the division. "The goal of this guide is to make it possible for anyone to join in this critical public discussion. This guide is based on the idea that thinking and deciding about genetics should not be left to the specialists alone."
"Because we have the scientific and technological ability to do something does not mean we should do it -- or should not do it. Christians in company with others need to appraise this new knowledge and power to manipulate genes in light of who we are, what we believe and what we hold to be good and right," says the book's preface.
"This study prepares Christians to take on this task in an informed and faithful way," it says. "It is not a church policy statement on genetics."
If the ELCA decides in the future that it would like to take a position in the public debate on genetics, the book's final chapter says this resource will be especially helpful. "Careful thought given now to these concerns by individuals, congregations and the institutional church will provide invaluable preparation when that time comes."
"The guide is designed for use in adult study groups, but also doubles as an entry point for the individual reader," says the book's introduction. It is "designed to provide a working knowledge of the many faces of 'genetics' and to aid Christians in determining where they should stand on the issues."
"Genetic knowledge can lead to amazing therapy, allow informed choices, set free the wrongly accused, dramatically improve crop yields and spin off whole new industries that respond to the ailments and misfortunes of life," says the introduction. "While we may celebrate the potential of genetic knowledge, its application presents challenges that range from interesting questions to troubling personal crises and social dilemmas."
The body of the study guide is in seven chapters: + A Primer in Genetics + Theology for the Age of Biological Control + Genetic Testing at the Beginning of Life + Genes and Human Behavior + Gene Patenting? + Genetically Modified Organisms + Genetics, Christians, and the Public Debate
The chapters include materials to help readers think about and discuss their assumptions and "pre-understandings," essential facts about genetics, theological analysis and reflections, and decision- making.
"'Pre-understandings' are the broad and pervasive sets of belief, knowledge, experiences, commitments, emotions and judgments that every individual brings to any new topic. There is no neutral approach to any information," the book explains. "It is hoped that readers will take the time to allow these questions to help surface their experiences, values and assumptions. This will foster openness and insight."
The guide stresses that "the ultimate goal of a study is not knowledge alone, but transformative action." It encourages readers "to develop a hands-on project growing out of their discussions."
Genetic research makes new revelations on a daily basis, so "many important topics are missing. Some of those topics will be addressed in additional chapters that will be made available online," says the guide. Those additions will be made to material available at http://www.elca.org/dcs/genetics.study.html on the Web site of the ELCA Division for Church in Society.
The study guide is distributed through Augsburg Fortress, the publishing house of the ELCA, Minneapolis.
For information contact:
John Brooks, Director (773) 380-2958 or NEWS@ELCA.ORG
http://listserv.elca.org/archives/elcanews.html
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About the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America:
The ELCA is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with 2.8 million members in more than 8,500 worshiping communities across the 50 states and in the Caribbean region. Known as the church of "God's work. Our hands.," the ELCA emphasizes the saving grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, unity among Christians and service in the world. The ELCA's roots are in the writings of the German church reformer Martin Luther.
For information contact:
Candice Hill Buchbinder
Public Relations Manager
Candice.HillBuchbinder@ELCA.org
