by the Permanent Deacons of Paterson, New Jersey

About the authors: The Permanent Deacons of Paterson, New Jersey, are a group of 147 clergymen who preside over the Roman Catholic diocese of Paterson. The following viewpoint is a statement signed by all but eight of the active deacons.

We, the deacons of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J., wish to address the faithful of our church and people of good will throughout the state of New Jersey regarding the question of capital punishment.

The ultimate punishment available to the state in the face of serious crime is the death penalty. Our position is rooted in our belief that human life is sacred and that we have an obligation to protect it and enhance it at all stages of development. Made in God's image and likeness, each person is...