To the Editor:

Re ''Moralists at the Pharmacy'' (editorial, April 3):

The growing obeisance to the so-called conscience concerns of pharmacists who object to filling birth control prescriptions reveals a lack of respect for the conscience -- and religious freedom -- of women who believe that acting morally means making conscientious decisions about bringing children into the world.

The decision to use contraception is one of the most profound expressions of moral responsibility a couple can make. Public officials and the medical community should ensure that no one stands between a woman and her conscience.

Frances Kissling
Washington, April 3, 2005

The writer is president of Catholics for a Free Choice.

This letter appeared in the 9 April 2005 edition of the New York Times.