Analysing the intentions of the recent Encyclical Evangelium Vitae, the author emphasises its theological aspects and brings out its doctrinal kern. The teaching of the Church centring on the respect due to human life is grounded in natural law as it is accessible to all those of upright conscience. Enlightened by the mystery of Creation, this teaching finds its definitive light in the person of Christ, fountain of eternal life. The author focuses his attention on the declarations concerning the murder of innocent human beings, induced abortion and euthanasia. It is in faithfulness to Christ that the Church, standing up in defence of the weakest, promotes a culture of life.
