26
May
Pro-Life Works of Mercy: Every life matters
Pro-life pastoral care focuses on the most vulnerable.
The culture of life will grow as long as we are each willing to play our part. While not everyone is called to full time pro-life ministry or advocacy, we are all called to help build the culture of life within our families and communities—to walk with those who are vulnerable or hurting; to speak up on behalf of the innocent; to bear witness to the truth about abortion, euthanasia, assisted suicide and other key pro-life issues. Prayerfully consider what God is calling you to do.
Post Abortion Healing
It is estimated that one in three adult women have had an abortion. Studies have found women who have had an abortion have an 81 percent higher risk of subsequent mental health problems compared to those who have not; a 55 percent higher risk of mental health problems compared to women with an “unplanned” pregnancy who have given birth; higher rates of anxiety, depression, alcohol use/misuse, marijuana use and suicidal behavior compared to those who have not had an abortion.
Often the shame and guilt of having participated in an abortion prevent individuals from seeking help dealing with its aftermath. Many Catholics carrying such grief and remorse stay away from the Church, erroneously thinking they have committed an unforgivable sin. The Project Rachel ministry was developed precisely to help such individuals come to terms with the memories and circumstances surrounding their decision to abort and to lead them to God’s mercy.
To speak to a trained Project Rachel professional, call the confidential hotline: 802-658-4118 or write: projectrachel@vermontcatholic.org.
Retreats available through the Diocese of Burlington:
There are currently no retreats scheduled in the Diocese of Burlington, but in order to ensure everyone who can benefit from one of these healing retreats is able to do so, the Diocese of Burlington offers financial assistance for travel to a retreat in a neighboring state. Please email projectrachel@vermontcatholic.org or call 802-658-6118 for more information.
Crisis Pregnancy Care
Looking for resources to help with an unplanned pregnancy? Vermont Catholic Charities Inc. offers counseling services and emergency aid including financial assistance. Call 802-658-6111 or (toll free) 877-250-4099 for more information.
Other nonprofit organizations offering free pregnancy testing, support, referrals, a 24-hour hotline and other services:
- Birthright of Burlington (Burlington)
- Central Vermont Pregnancy Center (Barre) (Includes ultrasounds)
- Aspire Now (Williston) (Includes ultrasounds)
- Branches Pregnancy Resource Center (Brattleboro)
- Alpha Pregnancy Care Center (Bennington) (Includes ultrasounds)
Catholic Advance Directives: an important part of end-of-life planning
An advance directive is a legal document witnessed in advance of a serious illness or injury to address your end-of-life medical care and/or your medical care in the event you are temporarily unable to speak for yourself. Executing an advance directive exercises good stewardship over the gift of life.
