Explainer: The “three-parent baby” IVF technique you should know about

Over the past decade, scientists have developed a technique called mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT), which allows for the creation of babies with three genetic parents. MRT was originally developed to prevent the transmission of certain genetic diseases from parent to child. Whether or not this technology has the potential to prevent the transmission of certain genetic diseases or to help overcome infertility, the technology raises serious and significant bioethical and theological concerns.

Here is what Christians should know about this controversial IVF technique.

How is your church responding to a post-Roe world?

The Dobbs decision marks a true turning point in the pro-life movement — a moment that Christians, pro-life advocates and many others have worked toward tirelessly for 50 years. As we respond to the ruling in this case, we want to be faithful to pray.

This free Dobbs prayer guide contains a list of 48 specific prayer requests to guide you, your family, and your church in your prayers over the coming weeks and months.

This Week in Washington, D.C.

Yesterday, President Biden released his budget proposal for fiscal year 2024. Every year, the president submits his budget proposal, and it serves as a blueprint for the administration’s priorities. A president’s budget proposal has no binding authority over Congress and will not become law.

Rather, it is a request and a statement of priorities that serves as a starting point for negotiations in Congress as the House of Representatives and the Senate work on the 12 spending appropriations bills that fund the government. Given that Republicans now control the House of Representatives, it is likely that the final budget will look quite different from this initial proposal.

The president’s budget proposal contained areas of deep concern as it increased funding for abortion providers at home and abroad and emphasized advancing “gender equity,” often coming at the expense of religious liberty. The proposal also included areas where additional advancement could be helpful, such as in improving border security and supporting families.

You can read more about our analysis on the budget proposal and the ERLC’s advocacy in the appropriations process here.

Featured Podcasts

This week, Jason continues his mini-series on the recently released volume The Digital Public Square with B&H Academic. Josh Wester joins Jason to talk about his contribution entitled, “Free to Believe? The Case for Religious Freedom and Free Expression in the Digital Age.”

From The Public Square

Gavin Newsom announces California is 'done' with Walgreens due to abortion pill
ABC News

Last week, the national pharmacy chain said it would not distribute mifepristone in 20 states after conservative attorneys general threatened legal action.

Utah governor says he plans to sign abortion clinic ban
Associated Press

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said Friday that he plans to sign a measure that would effectively ban abortion clinics from operating in the state, meaning hospitals will soon be the only places where they can be provided in the state.

Oklahoma voters reject legalizing recreational marijuana
Associated Press

Oklahoma voters on Tuesday rejected the legalization of recreational marijuana, following a late blitz of opposition from faith leaders, law enforcement and prosecutors.

Abortion clinics crossing state borders not always welcome
Associated Press

As clinics have been forced to shutter in Republican-dominant states with strict abortion bans, some have relocated to cities and towns just over the border, in states with more liberal laws. The goal is to help women avoid traveling long distances. Yet that effort does not always go smoothly. . .

What You Need to Read

Andreas Bienert with What you should know about the addiction aspect of pornography

The Bible’s teaching on sexuality and the inherent dignity of all people should lead us to declare that pornography is a moral scourge, with spiritual consequences for all of those involved. But as we seek to serve those affected by it, research has provided us an opportunity to also understand the physical realities pornography inflicts upon a person.

Jason Thacker with How a post-truth society is vulnerable to misinformation and conspiracy theories

We are frequently faced with the realities of misinformation, disinformation, fake news, and conspiracy theories. Social media has opened up a new world of connectivity and access to information. But for all of the good that these tools can bring into our lives, these benefits also have also come at a cost to the very foundation of truth in our societies today.

Mary Holloman with Why we should continue to seek the end of abortion: Genine and Jordan’s story

For many, abortion is more of an abstract concept—it doesn’t have a face. We are burdened by its existence, and we may speak out against it, but we don’t see it. We aren’t affected by it. But as I held tiny, perfect Jordan, the dark reality of abortion broke my heart all over again. Here in my arms was a boy who almost wasn’t. By God’s grace, his mother found the courage to choose life for her child.