Guatemala City, Guatemala, Aug 15, 2008 / 11:40 am (CNA).- Led by the president of the Congress, 71 Guatemalan lawmakers signed the “Book of Life,” a document in which they commit to defend life from conception to natural death despite pressure from abortion supporters who protested outside the Congressional building.

The ceremony was attended by Archbishop Victor Hugo Palma, who reminded lawmakers that they have been elected by the people “to preserve life, a divine gift from God.”  Evangelical leaders and the Congressional Board of Directors were also in attendance.

Congressman Roberto Alejos said the signing of the document was in keeping with the country’s Constitution, which grants protection to human life from the moment of conception.

The “Book of Life” was already signed by 84 lawmakers in El Salvador.  The initiative began in Honduras and organizers hope the document will be signed in every country in Central America.  The next stop for the Book will be Costa Rica, with Panama and Mexico possibly being next in line.

Regina Cardenal, president of the Salvadoran foundation Yes to Life, said that the signing of the Book is aimed at “creating awareness” among the legislative bodies of Central America of the importance of protecting life, especially the life of the unborn.

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