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Faced with the looming construction of a multimillion-dollar, regional abortion facility by Planned Parenthood Gulf South, New Orleans Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond has cautioned local Catholics and businesses they would be "cooperating with the evil that will take place" at the clinic if they participated in its preparation or construction. In an open letter, published on the front page of the Feb. 1 issue of the Clarion Herald, the archdiocesan newspaper, Archbishop Aymond said the caution extends to any person or business "involved in the acquisition, preparation and construction of this (abortion) facility." The archbishop also indicated the archdiocese would not do future business "with any person or organization that participates in actions that are essential to making this abortion facility a reality. This policy applies to all businesses, regardless of religious affiliation or nonaffiliation," Archbishop Aymond wrote. "Our fidelity to church teaching and our conscience necessitates this stance." Planned Parenthood currently operates two clinics in Louisiana -- in New Orleans and Baton Rouge -- but does not perform abortions in the state. In its public statements about the proposed 7,000- to 8,000-square-foot facility, located about five minutes from two universities and on a site easily accessible by public transportation, Planned Parenthood Gulf South indicated it would seek a state license to perform abortions.

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