Pope celebrates 'sanctity of life'

Pope Benedict XVI today emphasised the sanctity of life “from conception to its natural end,” speaking against abortion and euthanasia.

“Life is the work of God, and should not be denied to anyone, not even the smallest and defenceless unborn child, especially not when affected by grave disabilities,” the pontiff said in his traditional noon blessing at the Vatican, which fell on the day that the Italian Church celebrates life.