When faced with infertility, couples often turn to in vitro fertilization (IVF) for help in building a family. However, for Christian couples who believe that life begins at or around conception, IVF raises ethical concerns. The recent IVF controversy in Alabama, where the state Supreme Court ruled that frozen embryos have the legal status of children, has brought these issues to the forefront. Some Christians argue that IVF is inherently unnatural and raises significant concerns about the dignity of human embryos. They call for more regulation and education surrounding the process.
Many Christian couples, guided by their faith, have grappled with the decision of whether to pursue IVF and what to do with extra embryos. Some, like Kelly and Alex Pelsor, turned to IVF after struggling with infertility for years. Kelly believes life begins at conception and initially felt scared about the IVF process. After prayer and seeking guidance, they decided to move forward with IVF. Kelly gave birth to a daughter through IVF and considers her a miracle from God. However, not all couples have had positive outcomes. Amanda Walker, for example, had extra embryos after successfully having children through IVF and agonized over what to do with them.
The ethical concerns surrounding IVF have led some Christian couples to explore alternative options, such as embryo adoption. Programs like Snowflakes, a division of Nightlight Christian Adoptions, allow couples to adopt embryos created through IVF and give them a chance to grow into children. For some couples, like Tori and Sam Earle, embryo adoption has provided a way to fulfill their desire for children while aligning with their beliefs about the sanctity of life. They adopted embryos that had been frozen for 20 years and welcomed a daughter into their family.
Despite the controversy surrounding IVF, many Christian couples view it as a viable option for building a family. Caroline Harries, founder of Moms in the Making, an infertility support group, emphasizes the importance of considering the fate of extra embryos and not discarding them irresponsibly. While some Christian leaders call for more regulation and education on the topic, others argue that IVF should not be restricted. The debate over the legal status of embryos and the ethical implications of IVF continue to provoke discussion within the Christian community.
The recent IVF controversy in Alabama has highlighted the complex views and beliefs of Christians when it comes to assisted reproductive technologies. While some support the court’s decision to deem embryos as “extrauterine children,” others are concerned about potential restrictions on IVF. Despite differing opinions, one thing remains clear: the desire to build a family and the belief in the sanctity of life drive Christian couples to navigate the challenges of infertility with faith and conviction. Whether through IVF, embryo adoption, or other means, these couples remain hopeful for the future of their families.
