This time of year, it is fitting to look back – to check the mirrors, so to speak, before looking ahead.In 2007, these issues grabbed headlines. Health Care Perhaps the most emotionally charged issue of 2007 was HB 288, the Compassionate Assistance for Rape Emergencies Act. The

by Francis J. Viglietta and Rev. Sandra Strauss It’s time to re-examine the death penalty in Pennsylvania. Fifteen diverse, faith-based, legal, and civil rights organizations, including the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference and the Pennsylvania Council of Churches, form the Pennsylvani

Last month, the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) published its required annual report on abortions in the Commonwealth. The report shows in 2005 there were 34,909 abortions performed in Pennsylvania, a decrease of 3.1% from 2004. The statistics report when the abortions were pe

In Harrisburg, a legislative mandate for hospitals to provide emergency contraception (EC) to victims of sexual assault is being considered. This drug treatment is confusing. How does it work? Where does the Catholic Church stand? Why should citizens care? EC is a high dose of birth c

Stem cells are in the news again. In July, President George Bush vetoed a bill that would have provided federal funding for embryonic stem cell research. Proponents of this controversial research will now pressure state government to support their efforts. Rep. Tom Tangretti (D-Westmo