What the Church teaches about life, pro-life and contraception

In light of all the recent discussion about contraception, the teachings of the Catholic Church and the dustup over the federal governments attack on religious liberty I believe we need some context.  What the Catholic Church believes and teaches about life, married sexual relations, procreation and contraception has been improperly reported, attacked and mischaracterized for quite some time; most especially in recent weeks.  The definitive teaching can be found in what has proven to be the most prophetic Papal encyclical Humanae Vitae by Pope Paul VI.  I am providing a link here to that famous encyclical and a well researched, well articulated article about Humanae Vitae.  Please take the time necessary to read and if engaged in debates and discussions about what the church teaches, know full well what she really, truly teaches:

http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/paul_vi/encyclicals/documents/hf_p-vi_enc_25071968_humanae-vitae_en.html

and

http://www.goodmorals.org/smith6.htm

And continue to pray for the church and her leaders during these difficult and challenging times and pray for those who attack the church, particularly those in public office who are so misguided.