I would submit that the Catholic Church and Catholic bishops are not as hard-line against abortion as the so-called "pro-life" movement. One bishop I know, has said privately that the anti-abortion people are the ones that give him the most grief. I have been known to say that the bishop has no balls, but be that as it may.

Still, it's unlikely that the Catholic Church will approve abortion. The best one can hope for, is that it will back off on pressuring government to criminalize abortion. I think that's possible.

I think there's value in having some groups that question the morality of abortion. It's not a decision that should be taken lightly, and somebody should voice the negative aspects of making such a decision.

And I'm not convinced that abortion is the only appropriate response to the Zika virus. I'm also not convinced that is it necessary to abort all children who have birth defects.

Of course, the best solution would be to find a way to prevent Zika virus infection, or to reverse the effects of such an infection on pregnant women.

There are many factors, and I think all of them should be considered. I don't think there are absolute answers at this time.

And again, if you disregard or ridicule the sentiments of those who oppose abortion, you will most certainly lose any chance of forming an alliance with them that could solve the problem. A solution to the problem that saves lives, is far more important than winning battles or demeaning opponents.

Opposition to abortion is a reality in many areas where the Zika virus is present. Those who wish to make progress, must find a way to accommodate that opposition instead of declaring an impasse and giving up in disgust.

-Joe-