“Every life has to be protected”

No exceptions. That’s been the message of the pro-life world: that no class of human beings can be considered ‘unworthy’ of life or the full protection of the law, from conception to natural death. At its core, the movement is about the dignity and sanctity of every human being, no matter what stage of life, no matter what condition of strength or weakness, no matter what ideology or practice.

The pro-life world is stunned by the news that abortionist George Tiller has been murdered. And they’re swiftly responding.

Fr. Frank Pavone of Priests for Life issued this statement:

“I am saddened to hear of the killing of George Tiller this morning. At this point, we do not know the motives of this act…We should not jump to conclusions or rush to judgment.
 
“But whatever the motives, we at Priests for Life continue to insist on a culture in which violence is never seen as the solution to any problem. Every life has to be protected, without regard to their age or views or actions.”

On the Priests for Life declarations page advocating non-violence, Fr. Pavone is seen working under the image and influence of Dr. Martin Luther King. Fr. Pavone works closely with Dr. King’s niece today.

My Uncle, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a servant of Jesus Christ. Using non-violence as a strategy, and the Bible as a weapon of love, Dr. King led the movement to overcome the constraints of racism during his lifetime. This same strategy, the non-violent love of God, is what is needed to promote the culture of life today.  — Dr. Alveda King, Pastoral Associate, Priests for Life

American Life League quickly posted this:

“Leaders within the pro-life movement often discuss justice in connection with our mission to end the tragedy of abortion.  Today, Dr. George Tiller’s life ended in an act defying those principles.

With genuine sorrow, we reflect on today’s events in prayer.  Justice for all human beings includes the lives of those with whom we fundamentally disagree as well as the victims of abortion.  We firmly hope the perpetrators of this act are apprehended, that the facts be made known, and that justice according to the law is preserved and dispensed.

Today’s actions were tragic, and serve as another reminder that all human life is sacred.  Pro-lifers by our nature and commitment to human rights reject violence as a means of resistance.  Our thoughts and prayers indeed extend to the Tiller family and the community at Reformation Lutheran Church.”

And on MSNBC’s update reporting that the murder suspect is in custody, the news outlet gave Operation Rescue the chance to denounce this crime by a lone gunman.

“We are shocked at this morning’s disturbing news that Mr. Tiller was gunned down,” Troy Newman, Operation Rescue’s president, said in a statement. “Operation Rescue has worked for years through peaceful, legal means, and through the proper channels to see him brought to justice. We denounce vigilantism and the cowardly act that took place this morning.”

Former Kansas Attorney General Phil Kline launched an investigation into Tiller’s practices and worked to prove that it violated state law. He had the same reaction as other pro-life professionals who work to end abortion violence legally and peacefully.

“I am stunned by this lawless and violent act, which must be condemned and should be met with the full force of law,” Kline said in a written statement. “We join in lifting prayer that God’s grace and presence rest with Dr. Tiller’s family and friends.”