September
13
"In this way democracy, contradicting its own principles effectively moves towards a form of totalitarianism. The State is no longer the "common home" where all can live together on the basis of principles of fundamental equality, but is transformed into a tyrant State, which arrogates to itself the right to dispose of the life of the weakest and most defenseless members" (John Paul II, The Gospel of Life, n.20).
Reflection: Some see laws permitting abortion as a minor flaw; the Pope is saying here that they change the very nature of the state.
Prayer: Lord, free us from the tyranny of governments that think they can dispose of human life. Amen.