In the chapter "Stem Cells", Bush describes receiving a letter from Nancy Reagan detailing a "wrenching family journey".
But ultimately, Bush writes: "I did feel a responsibility to voice my pro-life convictions and lead the country toward what Pope John Paul II called a culture of life."
In the book, Bush describes an emotional July 2001 meeting with the Pope at the pontiff's summer residence.
Savaged by Parkinson's, the Pope saw the promise of science, but implored Bush to support life in all its forms.
Later, at the Pope's funeral -- and after a prodding from his wife that it's a time to "pray for miracles" -- Bush found himself saying a prayer for the cancer-stricken ABCNEWS anchor Peter Jennings.
Hmm. Two Protestants who felt the pope's funeral was a privileged moment of grace?
