Dr. Haas Articles
Dr. John M. Haas is a moral theologian, bioethicist, and prolific author whose work has shaped Catholic thought in the modern world. His writings span a wide range of subjects including bioethics, moral theology, fatherhood, human sexuality, and Church teachings. As president emeritus of The National Catholic Bioethics Center and a sought-after speaker and commentator, Dr. Haas has contributed to scholarly journals, popular magazines, and theological symposia. His articles reflect both intellectual rigor bringing clarity to complex moral issues. Below is a categorized and dated collection of his published and public work, including print articles, digital essays, video lectures, and editorial contributions.
Bioethics and Human Dignity
Lessons in Catholic Bioethics: Why You Cannot Destroy Human Embryos
Date: June 8, 2024
Dr. Haas explores the sanctity of human life in the context of embryo destruction. He explains how Catholic moral theology upholds the dignity of the embryo from the moment of conception.
The Catholic Position on Abortion
Date: 1993
Dr. Haas clearly explains the Church’s unwavering opposition to abortion. He roots this teaching in natural law and the consistent witness of tradition.
Begotten Not Made: A Catholic View of Reproductive Technology
Date: 1998
A foundational document exploring Church teaching on the moral status of reproductive technologies. Dr. Haas presents a coherent vision of human dignity and procreation.
Liberty4Life Lecture on Brain Death
Date: 2011
Dr. Haas presents Catholic insights into defining death through neurological criteria. The talk engages bioethical questions surrounding organ donation and human dignity.
Moral Theology and Catholic Ethics
Introduction to Moral Theology (video)
Date: 1995
This video series introduces viewers to the foundational principles of Catholic moral theology. Dr. Haas provides accessible instruction for those seeking to understand how faith informs ethical living.
Crisis Magazine Author Archive
Date: Ongoing
This archive contains dozens of articles authored by Dr. Haas in Crisis Magazine. The topics include moral reasoning, social issues, and Church teaching.
Crisis and Cultural Reflections
The Cause of the Present Disorder
Date: October 2023
Dr. Haas discusses the moral disarray in contemporary culture and the abandonment of Judeo-Christian ethics. He identifies secularism and relativism as key contributors to societal instability.
Fraternal Correction in a Time of Pandemic
Date: April 2020
Amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Haas encourages Catholics to lovingly guide one another toward truth and virtue. He emphasizes the balance of charity and clarity in moral correction.
Pope Benedict and the Liturgy
Date: November 2005
This article explores Pope Benedict XVI’s efforts to restore reverence and continuity in the Catholic liturgy following Vatican II. Dr. John Haas highlights the Pope’s concerns about the loss of Latin, sacred music, and traditional orientation in worship, while offering a vision for renewal grounded in the Church’s living tradition.
Educational Resources and Public Lectures
Seton Hall Summer Institute Lecture (audio)
Date: 1993
Dr. Haas contributes to Seton Hall’s Summer Institute, addressing ethical formation and bioethical discernment in a Catholic framework.
Church Honors and Institutional Roles
Appointment to John Cardinal Krol Chair
Date: January 11, 2019
Dr. Haas was named to the prestigious Cardinal Krol Chair in Moral Theology at Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary. This role affirms his contribution to Church teaching and formation.
Christendom College Commencement Honoree (article)
Christendom College Commencement (video)
Date: Apr 27, 2023
Dr. Haas was honored at Christendom College’s 2023 commencement. The recognition reflects his impact on Catholic education and moral scholarship.
Video & Media Appearances
Catholic Thinkers Video Series Playlist
Date: 1995
Dr. Haas presents a variety of lectures on Catholic moral theology and bioethics. The series is used in theological education worldwide.
Journey Home Interview: Former Episcopal Clergyman
Date: March 13, 1998
In this televised interview, Dr. Haas shares his personal conversion story to the Catholic faith. It reveals the theological and personal journey that shaped his vocation.
Print Newspaper Articles (Scanned PDFs)
New Institute to Reflect Catholic Thought on Ethics
Date: May 29, 1990
Covers the launch of a new Catholic bioethics institute with Dr. Haas at the helm. The institute was designed to provide faithful and scientific guidance to moral issues.
Doctor’s Ethics Meet The Real World
Date: Apr 29, 2007
A profile of Dr. Haas’s work at the intersection of theology and real-world bioethical decisions. This article features his practical engagement in hospitals and medical boards.
Theology Meets Practice in Medical Ethics
Date: Nov 28, 2010
This article explores how Dr. Haas applies Catholic teaching in his role as a bioethicist. It highlights his influence on medical institutions.
A Doctrine’s Practical Applications
Date: Feb 16, 1993
Dr. Haas discusses real-life challenges of implementing Catholic bioethics. This newspaper article outlines his advisory roles and Church-based framework.
Opposition to Fetal Research
Date: Oct 9, 1992
Dr. Haas articulates ethical objections to fetal tissue research. This piece covers his involvement in public advocacy and Church teachings on life.
Medical Morality and Catholic Teaching
Date: Aug 8, 1993
A local profile of Dr. Haas’s views on integrating Catholic doctrine in healthcare. It reveals how he advises medical professionals navigating tough moral decisions.
Haas on Catholic Bioethics
Date: Jun 4, 1993
A feature article on Dr. Haas’s growing influence in Catholic bioethics. It outlines major issues he addressed in his public and academic work.
Debating End-of-Life Ethics
Date: Feb 25, 1998
Dr. Haas comments on Catholic perspectives regarding end-of-life decisions. He discusses pain relief, suffering, and moral limits of treatment.
Editor
Crisis of Conscience (Crossroad, 1996)
Dr. Haas edited this volume featuring essays by leading Catholic moral theologians, including Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger. He also contributed a chapter examining the role of conscience in contemporary moral theology.
Translations
Introduction to The Lord by Romano Guardini
Dr. John M. Haas translated the introduction to The Lord, a classic spiritual work written by Romano Guardini and introduced by then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger. This English-language edition was published by Regnery Press and remains a profound meditation on the life and person of Jesus Christ.