Stem Cell Research for ALS Causes Concern in Catholic Community

CHARLOTTEThe ALS ice bucket is almost impossible to avoid online; but the challenge, specifically the type of research that it's proceeds may be funding, have some in the Catholic church giving pause.

There is some concern among a lot of Catholics that the ALS foundation has done a little bit of embryonic stem cell research. And even a little bit can be too much said David Hains, the Communications Director for the Charlotte Diocese.

Hains said the Diocese, along with others around the country, oppose the use of embryonic stem cells for any sort of medical research. Its research the ALS Association, prime beneficiary of the challenge, has reportedly used in the past.

In order to do embryonic stem cell research, you have to destroy an embryo. An embryo is life it is a human being even though it has an almost countable number of cells said Hains.

Since the challenge went viral, raising upwards of $100 million for the ALS Association this summer, Catholic organizations around the country have been grappling with how to couple support for a cure with the reality of their faith.

Charlotte ALS research leader Dr. Benjamin Brooks said it can be done.

So there are alternative ways that the stem cell research can move forward not involving fetal research. I think if people want to contribute to ALS research, one can demarcate where it should go, said Dr. Brooks.

Hains said the Diocese still wants Catholics to donate to ALS, but support organizations whose scientific practices are fully in line with their personal religious values.

Go here to read the rest:
Stem Cell Research for ALS Causes Concern in Catholic Community