"You Can Fairly Judge the Character of Society by How It Treats the Weak, the Vulnerable, the Most Easily Forgotten".(Editorial)

Editor's note. For the most part, commencement addresses come and go, making nary a ripple. I remember the speech at my own college graduation mostly for the weather: the heavens opened up about two-thirds through a thoroughly arid speech.

That surely wasn't the case when President Bush (as a reporter for Knight Ridder put it) urged new college graduates at Concordia University "to promote `a culture of life' in America as part of a lifetime commitment to serve the weak, the vulnerable and `the most easily forgotten.''' His speech, according to reports, was repeatedly interrupted by standing ovations.

Speaking at the largest Lutheran university in America, President Bush challenged graduates of Concordia to "protect and honor life in all its seasons." Located just north of Milwaukee, Concordia graduates many who go on to become ministers.

Alluding to abortion and lethal stem cell research, the President told the approximately 500 graduates, "Our worth as human beings does not depend on our health, or productivity, or independence, or any other shifting value the world might apply." Mr. Bush added, "Our worth comes from bearing the image of our maker."

Referring to America's long record of compassion, the President said, "We believe that everyone has a place and a purpose in this world, that every life matters, that no insignificant person was ever born." He told the graduates that "America needs your good heart in meeting a basic responsibility: to protect and honor life in all its seasons." A compassionate society, Mr. Bush said, "shows a special concern for those at the beginning of life, those at the end of life, and those who struggle in life with disabilities."

What follows are excerpts that pro-lifers will find of particular interest. You can read the President's entire remarks at http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2004/05/20040514-4.html.

President Delivers Commencement Address at Concordia University