Search
Pro-Life Ministry
-
-
From beginning to end, or “womb to tomb,” the catechism states: “Human life is sacred because from its beginning it involves the creative action of God and it remains forever in a special relationship with the Creator, who is its sole end” (2258).
Practices such as abortion, assisted suicide and capital punishment violate the dignity of the human person and must be rejected. In today’s world, this truth can be subverted in favor of how useful someone is or will be, casting aside those most vulnerable: the unborn, women and children, those living in poverty, the ill, the incarcerated, those living with disabilities and the elderly.
The Diocese of Portland is engaged in advocacy and supports a variety of pro-life initiatives throughout the state in support of these core beliefs. Through the Office of Public Policy and other ministries, the diocese provides opportunities for parishes and parishioners to engage in pro-life activities.
-
-
-
Walking with Moms in NeedWhile pregnancy is a time of joy for many families, it can also be overwhelming for women who are facing an unexpected pregnancy or difficult circumstances. No woman should feel alone during this time. The Catholic Church is committed to accompanying mothers with compassion, practical assistance, and hope.
Walking with Moms in Need is a parish-based initiative that connects pregnant and parenting mothers with the resources they need to thrive. Parishes work together to link women with support such as baby supplies, clothing, referrals to community services, and spiritual care. Check with your local parish to learn whether they offer a Walking with Moms in Need ministry. If they do not, consider helping to begin one and helping other mothers along their journeys.
-
Maine parishes with Walking with Moms in Need programs include:
-
-
-
Maine Right to LifeThe diocese participates in the Maine Right to Life Committee (MRLC) which was founded to protect and uphold the dignity and worth of each human life from conception to natural death. It is the state affiliate of the National Right to Life Committee and is a statewide non-profit corporation.
Maine Right to Life seeks to uphold the inviolable sanctity of human life from conception to natural death by making abortion, infanticide, and euthanasia socially, ethically, and legally unacceptable and to actively promote positive alternatives.
To learn more, visit http://www.mainerighttolife.org
-
Pregnancy Support CentersThe Church calls all the faithful to accompany pregnant women with concrete charity and prayer, ensuring they receive proper prenatal, medical and nutritional care, material assistance for housing and education, and spiritual accompaniment that affirms the dignity of motherhood. As part of that same calling, parishes and Catholic agencies are urged to provide counseling, material support, and sacramental accompaniment, especially for those in difficult circumstances.
Pregnancy Support Centers provide free pregnancy tests to all women, regardless of their income. They also deliver counseling and a wide range of services at no cost. Many centers supply maternity and baby clothes, along with baby equipment. Some centers guide women in school on how to continue their education or pursue advanced degrees. These centers show women that they don’t have to choose between their own lives and the lives of their unborn children.
Maine Right to Life has compiled a list of Pregnancy Support Centers in Maine here: https://mainerighttolife.org/pregnancy-support/
-
-
-
IVF, NFP and ContraceptionWhen a couple is struggling to conceive, or trying to avoid conceiving a child, the church encourages them to use methods that honor the dignity of human life and the sanctity of marriage. For avoiding conception, Natural Family Planning (NFP) is fully approved by the church, it helps couples respect one another and work with God’s design for procreation. All artificial contraceptives are intrinsically wrong.
When struggling with infertility, reproductive technologies are permitted when they help, not replace, the conjugal act. For example, treatments that improve a couple's natural fertility are encouraged, whereas procedures like IVF or surrogacy, which remove the conjugal act, are not morally acceptable. However, couples that have already begun IVF are encouraged to give all embryos their proper dignity, just as they would to a naturally conceived embryo.Learn more:
-
Assisted SuicideAssisted suicide is a practice that poses a severe threat to the elderly and poor in our community.
The Church teaches us to devote more care, not less, to the most vulnerable members of our society. We are called to address the physical, mental, and spiritual needs of those facing the end of their earthly life. We should seek to alleviate their pains while assuring them of their inherent worth.Teachings and resources about assisted suicide:
To Live Each Day with Dignity - USCCB statement about the dangers of assisted suicide and how to respond.
Three Beliefs - A guide for Maine Catholics facing end-of-life decisions.
-
