Catalog of Ministries

“People of Life”: In support of the”Pastoral Plan for Pro-Life Activities”

At their meeting in November 2001, the U.S. Catholic bishops reaffirmed and approved for publication the Pastoral Plan for Pro-Life Activities: A Campaign in Support of Life. The staff of the Pro-Life Secretariat, with support from members of “People of Life,” implements this plan on a national level, as well as supports its implementation throughout the country. This pastoral plan calls upon all the resources of the Churchâ??its people, services, and institutionsâ??to pursue this effort with renewed energy and commitment in four major areas. Public Information and Education to deepen understanding of the sanctity of human life and the humanity of unborn children, the moral evil of intentionally killing innocent human beingsâ??whether at the beginning of life or at its endâ??and the mission of the Church to witness to and serve all human life. Pastoral Care for women with problems related to pregnancy; for all who have been involved in abortion; for those who are disabled, sick, and dying, and their families and caregivers; for those who have lost loved ones to violent crime; and for those in prison sentenced to death. Public Policy efforts directed to restoring legal protection to the lives of unborn children and those vulnerable to pressures to end their lives by assisted suicide, and to providing morally acceptable alternatives to abortion and assisted suicide. The staffs of NCHLA and the USCCB Office of Government Relations are key partners in this work. Prayer and Worship directed to participation in the sacramental life of the Church and in programs of communal and individual prayer, that the culture of death that surrounds us today will be replaced by a culture of life and love. This Pastoral Plan foresees dialogue and cooperation between the national episcopal conference and priests, deacons, religious, and lay persons, individually and collectively. We seek the collaboration of every Catholic organization in this effort. At every levelâ??national, regional, state, diocesan, and parishâ??it is important to seek the support of individuals and organizations involved in other ministries and, in turn, to be supportive of their work on behalf of human life as well. Together we are involved in God’s work in promoting the dignity of the human person.