April 20. Sophie was a nurse working in a public hospital.  She shared a real concern. “I wonder what would happen if I refused to do some procedures that are against my religion, like performing an abortion.  If I say, ‘I must obey God rather than men,’ will I lose my job?  I know some nurses did get fired and then it’s not easy to get another post.  Plus it is a big worry about one’s own children.” Mrs Adams added, “It is a real dilemma in quite a few professions, I know. But somehow we pray for courage to obey our conscience, because after all we’re answerable to God. You can discuss it with Father if you want to, or with another priest. I can relate to what Pope Francis had to say.”

Reflect, share and act. Scripture. Peter and the apostles said to the council. “We must obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised Jesus whom you killed by hanging him on a tree. God exalted him. We are witnesses of these things.  From Acts 5:27-33.  Pope Francis:  We find it hard to make room for the consciences of the faithful who often respond as best they can to the Gospel amid their limitations and are capable of carrying out their own discernment in complex situations. We have been called to form consciences not to replace them.  AL 37. Reflect, share and act, pray.   Consider issues around conscience together.