Capital punishment: keep it or not? This essay addresses the question of whether or not we should keep the death penalty within the American criminal code. There is a feeling of frustration and horror that we feel when faced with the senseless and brutal crimes that too often disrupt the harmony of society. There is pain that accompanies the heartfelt condolences that we extend to the families of the victims who, in their moment of suffering, need the support and compassion of the entire community. Nothing will ever bring their loved ones back. Clearly, such violence must be vehemently denounced. Appropriate measures should be taken to safeguard our community and reduce the incidence of crime. The guilty should pay the penalty for their actions. At the same time, however, we Christians also consider it our duty to question whether it is appropriate to maintain the death penalty in our penal system. Today in our country more than 2,500 human beings await execution. As throughout history, even today, a disproportionate number...