(Cherie Vandermillen – Pulpit & Pen) Abortion has been illegal in Ireland since 1861. In 1983, there was a growing concern among Ireland’s population, which was heavily influenced by the pro-life ethic of the Roman Catholic Church, that their country would follow the pattern of the more secular nations around it and legalize the practice of killing babies in womb. Pro-lifers fought to maintain the protection of the unborn. On September 7th, 1983, the “Eighth Amendment of the Constitution Act” was enacted, giving the mother and the unborn equal rights and protection under Irish law. Yesterday, May 25, Irish voters, in a referendum, had the opportunity to perpetuate or repeal the Eight Amendment. Sadly, in a landslide vote, Irish voters decided to repeal the amendment.