How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
That which is born alive was, by the law of the Church and the law of Nature, suffered to live, and helped to maturity if possible, by those who had begotten it. (1.3)
The Church commands its version of morality be observed in the case of mutant births. This is a small point early in the novel, but it grows to become a source of much contention between Church, state, and individual later on. Keep it in mind, Shmoopers.
Quote #2
There was nothing to do but obey the command to return. (3.72)
Francis's will has been completely consumed by the Church and its commands. To question his superiors is to question the Church—something he cannot do.
Quote #3
Father Cheroki, who came of baronial stock from Denver, tended to react formally to men's official capacities, tended to speak courteously to the badge of office while not allowing himself to see the man who wore it, in this respect following the Court customs of many ages. (4.2)
The Church claims the moral high ground of God. And whether or not it owns that moral high ground, it's still an organization made up of mortal men on Earth. Father Cheroki's inability to see this fact grants the reader the ability to do just that. That's dramatic irony for you, and it's awesome.