The bioethics bandwagon is once again rolling, and all the trappings of a circus parade are in evidence.

The media pant after politicians, priests, scientists, and philosophers to unveil the medical intricacies and moral issues associated with embryonic stem cell research. It is a compelling, indeed riveting, issue that cries out for a rational response. Unfortunately, though, this is one ethical dilemma that evades straightforward explanation and easy polarization, tapping into the deepest channels of conflicted thoughts and mixed emotions. What one might have thought, for example, would be a "no-brainer" for George W. Bush has turned into an anguished personal struggle for the President.

Here at the Park Ridge Center we are not immune to media hype and personal indecision. We have actively participated in the initial debate. Given our very public mission, we welcome this type of engagement. But there is much more to it.

We will continue to participate, but our distinctive motivation that focuses on religious and spiritual impulses demands more of us. Embryonic stem cell research—even more than abortion—excites a sense of uncertainty and hesitancy among religious individuals and communities. Many traditional theological perspectives simply do not cover the moral contingencies in this case. The stem cell debate is consequently churning up religious sentiment. Many believe that recent advances in medical science demand renewed theological reflection and finer moral distinctions. As Peter Steinfels recently wrote in the New York Times, "the current clash over stem cell research is less a conflict of science and faith than faith and faith," and thus, even within the major theological traditions, there is conflict between theologians. But conflict need not be the predominant theme.

The debate over the use of embryonic stem cells might also be viewed as an opening, a door to the theological future. It should invite speculation about the moral contours of human life and destiny. A preemptive dismissal on traditional theological grounds is unnecessary. Individuals and religious groups need not venture through the doorway if it ultimately leads away from their core beliefs, but they should not fail to investigate the opening. Communities of faith should take an active and constructive role in the evolving moral environment of contemporary society.

The Park Ridge Center will soon initiate a project that will draw together eminent medical scientists and leading theologians from several religious traditions. Each theologian will be asked to explore the resources of his or her tradition, looking for fresh perspectives on embryonic stem cell research. Arguments for and against such research will no doubt emerge. But a thoroughgoing, contemporary theological debate will serve to further refine each perspective and clarify major avenues of concern. At the Park Ridge Center, the door is always open.