Lack of support of Catholic teaching on abortion on the local level

[auttiesvet]

I joined my parish about six months ago when I returned to the Catholic Church. I am originally from a pretty conservative area of the country, but have for the last 30 years lived in a more liberal state. Being generally “pro-life” (with some moral dilemmas surrounding rape, incest, severe birth defects, and life of the mother), I went to a prayer service on the anniversary of Roe v. Wade where there was just a handful of people (but the weather being absolutely miserable, I was hoping this could have been a reason.) I also had joined the Respect Life ministry and went to my first meeting, and there was a total of five people, including myself. I understand that the actual mailing list is about 15 people. I also learned that abortion is not talked about in religious ed because the parents consider it a “private issue” and will revolt. Also I learned that not all of the priests are even necessarily strongly pro-life. One of our ministry events wasn’t even mentioned from the pulpit on Sunday during announcements. In general, however, our events are supported by the parish.

Am I wrong to be sad and disappointed that my parish will not take a stronger stand on this topic? I understand not wanting to alienate parishioners, who do so much good otherwise (in areas of sharing and outreach especially). On the other hand, if we, as Catholics, don’t stand up for the rights of the unborn, then who will?

What are the experiences of others in this area?

 

[getysbg]

Your disappointment is justified. Remember that “the squeaky wheel gets the oil”. It is possible to confront without climbing into someone’s face. Also, do not let an incorrect statement, such as it’s a private matter, etc, to go by without, calmly stating that you disagree.

 

[runningdude]

I joined my parish about six months ago when I returned to the Catholic Church. I am originally from a pretty conservative area of the country, but have for the last 30 years lived in a more liberal state. Being generally “pro-life” (with some moral dilemmas surrounding rape, incest, severe birth defects, and life of the mother),

The vast majority of people who are “prochoice” share this same “moral dilemma”. However, they rightly conclude that if it were morally permissible to terminate an ill child or a child conceived in rape, then abortion at any stage must also be permissible. This is however the wrong conclusion.

Our faith “reminds” us that the life of every child is sacred. Our faith does not “teach” this per se, as this belief does not originate from the church, but rather from our innate human dignity. Even if their were no Catholic Church, abortion would still be gravely wrong. No child may be morally destroyed!

I have studied Catholic logic and theology. There are very few “loopholes” around difficult topics. We are a church that tolerates suffering, because our Lord and Savior suffered. The goal of liberals is to eliminate suffering, even if the means to do so causes more.

The couple that aborts a child with Down Syndrome escapes the suffering of raising that child and watching his awkward and difficult life. The child though, suffers poisoning or stabbing, and then an uncertain fate following his death at the request of its own parents…

The only way to build up a Pro-life ministry is to be clear on what is being fought for. People will NOT enthusiastically support “no abortion, except when necessary”, because they already believe this position. Nobody LIKES abortion! In the south, states that are passing restrictions have support of their residents, because their goal is to eliminate abortion, even if legally they can only restrict it.

I live in the most liberal state of the union, and yet we teach the Pro-life position in CCD/Confirmation. Our priests are deeply Pro-Life. Our Knights of Columbus sponsor prayers for life monthly. It is only when you fully embrace the moral position on abortion can the Holy Spirit move you do his work!

 

[christofirst]

You can rightly be sad and disappointed, but please don’t get discouraged. Without you, there would have only been 4 people at that Respect Life meeting. You make a difference. I attend a pro-life rosary at a neighboring parish every Saturday, and we average about 10 people, but I understand that families have many commitments and responsibilities. The pastor in this parish is great about speaking out against the culture of death, but he is fighting an uphill battle against the rest of society. Anyway, don’t give up! “Jesus protect and save the unborn. Oh Sacred Heart of Jesus, sanctify all our priests.” (what we pray after each rosary decade).

 

[katy]

What they said. I would like to add that if you are still regaining your footing in the faith, you might want to consider changing parishes at least until you are stronger. I only mention that because I found it to be true for me. Welcome home.

 

[wendiek]

Being Catholic is much more than being pro-life. Our opportunities for ministry are endless - serving the poor, volunteering at schools, hospitals, habitat for humanity, fundraising efforts, serving as catechists, vacation bible school, funeral service and luncheons, youth ministry, service at Mass in form of lectors, alter service, ushers and Eucharistic ministers. Don’t forget choir, committees, and what else haven’t I mentioned? Add to that our own vocations of marriage, parenting, caring for parents and just earning a living.

I think you might be grateful for the committee you have, demonstrate your gratitude for their passion, maybe invite those who you interact with daily that share your enthusiasm and build from there? Do not be disappointed - the Church Militant is a busy place, and there are never enough hands!

 

[jeannetherese]

My mom is active in pro-life activities in an area with views similar to that which you describe.

It has been a many-year process, but perseverance is being rewarded. The pro life group has grown, this year’s March for Life at the state capital had greater numbers (but typically limited press coverage) than that of last year, a new pregnancy aid center is being operated out of a local church.

Support for alternatives to abortion seems to be growing beyond this parish as other parishes charter buses for the March for Life, create opportunities for “Healing the Culture” workshops, and hold fundraising activities to support pregnancy aid centers.
Your group may be interested in this organization, dedicated to building a Culture of Life and brought into being through the work of Father Spitzer.

healingtheculture.com/

What a wonderful ministry you have been called to. May God bless you and sustain you as you work to sustain others.

jeannetherese

 

[djames99]

We are here to substantiate our principles. We care for the person/nation making decisions, at the same time has we do for the nation/individual under threat. “Private issues” is a broad term gaining popularity in our secular world that has a grain of political correctness. If our care for the welfare of others extends to families, then has brothers and sisters there are few private issues.(There are of course in the day to day context of families.)

A follow up opinion with the priest who appears not to be pro life needs to be discreetly confronted fraternally by two or three members. This should be in the vein of light and respectful information gathering. However, ensure substantiated proof is available. A discussion with the priest to clear up the matter and learn of differing stances is important. If still a concern, he should be notified that a follow up opinion with the bishop will be sought. If still not resolved, a body should know it’s place, and this is as far as it could go and left to the Lord, the rumor mill quashed. But all may not be what it seems.

There is nothing wrong with the parish taking a stand against moral issues, and the parish counsel, working closely with the congregation, should take on the task. It must first receive the backing of the priest. It may be that the priest may assign a higher priority to an issue more pressing and not as obvious to the group. As well, the Holy Spirit may work through him on his own timetable. He may also be working in consolidation with other parishes/diocese on a strategy that involves a united front calling for patience. It is important to extend confidence to our priests. Losing faith is the danger.

The counsel should proceed and report it’s activity on a regular basis. It’s ability to anticipate events would be a bonus, and it should be able to weigh the local climate and it’s receptiveness. No one member should set out on his own and claim to represent the group unless authorized by the counsel. It should be clear he is representative, and not
convey a personal agenda(although it may be permitted in other circumstances).

There may be reasonable cause to put activities on hold or low key in favor of the parish, especially in a hostile environment. The parish comes first, and our Lord knows the efforts that are made by it’s members. The children and family’s safety predominate.