Surrogacy has become a much sought-after option for couples who want to become parents despite medical conditions or other complications. Couples who struggle with fertility and don’t want to adopt are more often turning to surrogacy as an alternative. But does this process remain within the boundary of Christian morals, or does it transgress them? To answer this question, it’s important to take a closer look at the nuances of surrogacy and what Christianity has to say about it.
At its core, surrogacy is a form of altruistic artificial reproduction whereby a third party enables her uterus to carry an embryo. Typically, the process requires a couple to seek out a potential surrogate mother and work with her and medical professionals in order to ensure a successful pregnancy. Additionally, many states allow couples to also compensate the surrogate mother for her services. While surrogacy remains a contested topic in many religious circles, Christianity itself has been surprisingly tolerant of the practice.
Reverend Sarah Morrow, an Episcopal priest, noted in a recent study that while “solicitation or payment of a surrogate mother is not widely accepted” in Christianity and is sometimes considered a form of “exploitation”, the use of surrogacy to facilitate the quest for a family is “within the bounds of Christian ethics”. For one, those who adhere to this religion sometimes interpret the bible to pertain to the conferral of “parental rights” to children which opens the way for surrogacy.
Furthermore, some also view surrogacy as a reflection of “God’s creative power” in which children are meant to be crafted by divine will rather than human whims. This is founded in the belief that, as ‘God’s weapons’, children should be welcomed regardless of how they come into the world. Likewise, theologian Martin Luther notes that “unconventional” forms of childbirth are still means through “which divinely sanctioned parenthood is passed on”, thereby providing legitimacy and meaning to surrogacy.
However, while religion is giving surrogacy increasing acceptance, there are still a number of churches which remain vehemently opposed. Pope John Paul II, for instance, considered all forms of surrogacy and artificial insemination immoral and has actively pushed for a worldwide ban. Others, such as some fundamentalist Baptist churches, feel that surrogacy is an affront to God’s will and goes against “natural procreation” and the sanctity of the family. Others still see surrogacy as akin to a form of prostitution or as defiling one’s body in exchange for money.
Ultimately, opinions on the morality of surrogacy vary and remain contested. While most churches and denominations are more accepting, there are still a number of individuals and churches who remain opposed. Still, it seems that, for now, the general consensus is that surrogacy is allowed for Christians within their ethical boundaries.
Surrogacy, Christian Ethics and Economics
While Christianity allows the practice of surrogacy to continue, certain practices, such as the payment of surrogacies, can still border on the unethical. Giving or receiving a financial incentive for such activity can be seen as circumventing the natural order of procreation or in exploiting women who are economically vulnerable. This is why it is important to ensure that there are clear boundaries drawn in order to protect all parties involved. For instance, there should be financial transparency, so that those involved know exactly how much is being paid, to whom and the length of the contract.
In addition, a number of organizations and churches also provide counseling services to surrogate mothers and other parties involved, as well as offering financial assistance and support in other forms. This has helped promote the practice as a moral and ethical form of family-building. Not only does this help ensure that everyone is better informed and can make informed decisions, but it also ensures that the process is not used to merely to fulfill one’s own selfish desires.
It is also important to note that the cost of surrogacy can be immensely high, depending on the country and the services sought. This can make it hard for many couples to afford, thus further highlighting the importance of financial assistance and counseling. Additionally, it is important to recognize that in many parts of the world, surrogacy is still illegal and many countries refuse to legally recognize contracts and/or arrangements that are concluded in countries where surrogacy is legal.
As a result, it is important to examine the complexities surrounding the practice of surrogacy in countries where it is legal and legislate accordingly. This helps ensure that everyone involved is protected and also provides a clear framework for those seeking gestational carrier services as deemed allowable by their moral and ethical codes.
How Christianity Has Changed its View on Surrogacy
Over the years, Christianity’s attitude towards surrogacy has evolved significantly. In the past, the practice was deemed “morally and ethically unacceptable” in the eyes of most denominations of Christianity. This was due to its perceived violation of traditional family structures, as well as its potential religious ramifications. However, with the advent of modern medical technologies and greater understanding of reproductive science, many churches have begun to take a more nuanced stance towards surrogacy and its ethical implications.
Today, a number of churches and denominations actively permit or encourage practitioners to involve themselves in surrogacy arrangements as long as it is done with the best interests of both the surrogate and the intended parents. As such, those who practice Christianity and are interested in pursuing surrogacy should ensure that they have done their research and that the church they choose is supportive of the practice.
At the same time, there must be certain conditions which must be observed for all parties to remain protected and for the successful execution of the surrogacy process. This includes the need for acquiring legal representation, financial security, and proper education and counseling. Such measures ensure that everyone involved is protected, and that the process itself is both moral and ethically sound.
The Role of Support Groups
As Christianity continues to become more accepting of surrogacy, support groups have emerged to provide not just physical and spiritual aid, but also to act as a platform for those seeking out surrogacy services. These groups help those interested in surrogacy understand the legal and moral considerations involved, and provide a space to ask questions and hear the experiences of those who have gone through the process.
For instance, a faith-based reproductive healthcare organization called Theology of Birth recently began offering “Faith-based Surrogacy Support Groups”. These groups meet both online and in-person in order to provide a space where those interested and involved in surrogacy can access trusted advice and resources, as well as gain access to group prayer support for the surrogacy process and those involved.
In addition, those interested in surrogacy also have a number of other organizations to turn to—such as the International Society of Christian Surrogacy, which provides resources and support to those seeking to pursue surrogacy while using funds and services in accordance with Christian ethics.
Ultimately, while the morality of surrogacy still remains contested and varies from denomination to denomination, the principle is becoming more accepted within Christianity. This is due to its potential to enable individuals to create families according to their religious views and beliefs, as long as such efforts remain within the bounds of morality and ethics.
Legal Concerns
When it comes to Christianity and surrogacy, there are a number of potential legal concerns which must be addressed. Surrogacy arrangements are inherently complex, and being aware of the process and the laws associated with it is essential. This is especially true for those who may be pursuing surrogacy in a state where the practice is not legally recognized or encouraged.
In such states, those involved in surrogacy arrangements may face legal liabilities, such as in the event of a breach of contract or a dispute related to parental rights. Additionally, such legal proceedings may also be difficult to obtain in cases of transnational surrogacy arrangements. As such, it is important to consult with a lawyer and understand the local laws regarding surrogacy before entering into any arrangements.
Furthermore, those in religious circles also need to remain mindful of discrimination laws, as it is illegal to refuse service to someone based on their religious beliefs. In addition, when it comes to legal proceedings, it is important for those seeking surrogacy services to ensure that their religious beliefs are adequately reflected and that the consequences of any decisions are understood by all the parties involved.
What the Future Holds
It is clear that the views from the church have changed significantly when it comes to surrogacy. Some denominations remain opposed to the practice, but in general, the tides have shifted and the potential for parenthood seems more attainable for those looking to pursue it as a part of their faith. As such, those considering such an option should be aware of its potential blessings and struggles.
Though there may still be some contention among religious organizations, the support and resources needed to make the surrogacy process a safe and fulfilling one continues to increase each year. As more organizations are created and the legal system is called upon to ensure that the rights of those involved in surrogacy arrangements are adequately provided for, the future of Christian surrogacy looks promising.
