The Archdiocese of Philadelphia welcomes participants of the Biotechnology Industry Organization's international convention held this week in Philadelphia. The convention brings together experts in biotechnology and biomedical sciences. One topic of discussion is likely to be stem cell research.

Cardinal Justin Rigali, Archbishop of Philadelphia, addressed the issue in a op-ed essay in the June 19 edition of The Philadelphia Inquirer. "The Church encourages the development of research in this area," he wrote, "in a manner that respects the sanctity of human life at every stage."

The Catholic Church supports adult-stem cell research and opposes embryonic stem cell research. The latter extracts stem cells by destroying human embryos. "The Church can never condone destroying the unborn to develop a potential benefit for the sick," the Cardinal said. "The deliberate destruction of human life is contrary to God's loving plan for all His creatures."

Adult stem cell research holds the promise of developing treatments that return people to good health without sacrificing human life.

"The attendees of the biotechnology convention and all those in our region should see the advantage of Philadelphia as a global leader in adult stem cell research," Cardinal Rigali said. "They should recognize the proven success of research on adult stem cells at producing treatments for medical conditions and its non-violation of human life."

For in-depth commentary and more information on stem cell research, contact the Office for Communications at 215-587-3747.

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Contact
Matthew Gambino
Associate Director
215-587-3747