As a Canadian citizen and a Catholic chaplain, I am deeply ashamed and sincerely disappointed that the Order of Canada was presented to a person who has destroyed the lives of thousands of the unborn.

"The Order of Canada is the centrepiece of Canada's honours system and recognizes a lifetime of outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. The Order recognizes people in all sectors of Canadian society. Their contributions are varied, yet they have all enriched the lives of others and made a difference to this country. The Order of Canada's motto is DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM (They desire a better country)."

How does Dr. Henry Morgentaler desire a better country when he is aborting the future of Canada? This is without a doubt, the 'Culture of Death' that Pope John Paul II often spoke about.

As mentioned in one of the editorials last week, how can a medical doctor who kills the unborn be given such a prestigious national award when someone who murders a child is sent to prison? What is wrong with this picture?

This travesty says nothing of the irreparable harm done to all those who are affected by abortions. Did the members of the selection team for the Order of Canada ever consider the lifelong psychological scars, the depression and the suicide rates of those mothers and fathers traumatized by abortions?

Anyone can take a life. Is the next recipient of the Order of Canada going to be the person who takes the life of the elderly?

The sad irony is that evil is celebrated while the good is mocked.

As citizens of this great nation, let's turn the tide and usher in a 'Culture of Life.'

Don Hall, Ancaster