An Embryo Adoptive Father's Perspective

I was asked to contribute to this volume my perspective as the father of a child who was born from an embryo adoption (EA). I was asked to respond specifically to the issues of fatherhood and the marriage bond, and how they are supposedly violated by embryo adoption. I hope to also offer the additional perspective of a father who also has adopted traditionally, as well as my thoughts on EA as a layperson with training in philosophy, theology, and bioethics. I will focus my remarks on three topics: The status of the embryo as a full human person, the status and dignity of adoptive fatherhood, and the issues raised by those in opposition to embryo adoption regarding sex and marriage. Through my remarks I hope it will become apparent that Suzanne’s and my support of embryo adoption is a result of our study, prayer, and experience.