As we begin October, which is observed as Respect Life Month in the Catholic Church, it is a time for all of us to reflect on the gift of life and how we’re receiving it in our own lives.
The Catholic Church teaches that we must protect all human life from conception to natural death. We know that many people in our society disrespect and ignore the sanctity of life in many ways. This includes abortion, sterilization, embryonic stem-cell research, lack of support for disabled persons, disregard for the needs of the poor, and attempts to legalize assisted suicide.
The legalization of abortion in the United States has tragically led to the death of millions of unborn children. However, it seems as if pro-life efforts and education have brought about decreases in the number of abortions, including in our own state of Wisconsin.
Ideally, we must work and pray for the day when there will be no abortions. Until then, there are many ways we can help mothers to choose life for their unborn babies.
In the Madison area, we are fortunate to have several organizations that are making a difference in saving lives and helping families choose life.
Providing compassionate listening, caring help
Imagine a woman who feels alone and scared when she discovers that she is unexpectedly pregnant. Fortunately, she finds out about Pregnancy Helpline of Madison. She calls the Helpline, and a caring, compassionate listener is on the other end of the line who is trained to help her sort through her feelings. This is a counselor who provides access to hundreds of agencies that can help.
Pregnancy Helpline of Madison was established 30 years ago to assist women and men experiencing pregnancy related issues before, during, and after the birth. Its library of over 250 referral sources is a resource for abortion alternatives, medical, legal, and material goods information.
Pregnancy Helpline recognizes the fact that pregnancy and abortion affect not only women but men as well. It encourage males to call, and has counselors willing to talk to prospective parents about their fears and challenges.
Reopened its crib program
Early this year, Pregnancy Helpline also reopened its crib program. Due to a change in crib regulations, the organization had to shut down its program temporarily last year. The new crib program is called the Safe Sleep Program, delivering brand new pack-n-plays to clients.
A pack-n-play is part portable crib, part play pen, part bassinet, and sometimes a changing table, toy center, or outdoor play space. It has a mattress for babies and young toddlers to sleep or play. It folds to fit in a bag for traveling.
Seeks volunteers, donations
Pregnancy Helpline is looking for more telephone volunteers to answer the calls it receives. This is done from the volunteer’s home during a time he/she chooses. Volunteers will receive training and materials, plus they will have monthly meetings for ongoing support. The next training session will be held in two parts on Saturday, Oct. 6 and 13, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Other volunteer opportunities are available working at the Sharing Center, where clients can get free infant clothing and other baby items. Volunteers are needed to sort donated clothing and pick up items donated items. For more information, call 608-222-0008 or e-mail: pregnancyhelpline.net
Monetary donations are always welcome to support their work. Send donations to: Pregnancy Helpline of Madison, P.O. Box 5261, Madison, WI 53705.
Pregnancy Helpline will be celebrating 30 years of serving Madison area families on Saturday, Oct. 13, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Babe’s Bar & Grill, 5614 Schroeder Rd., in Madison. Entire families are welcome. To RSVP, call 608-222-0080 or e-mail [email protected]
Pregnancy Helpline is just one way to help mothers, fathers, and babies. In Madison we also have The Elizabeth House (run by Care Net Pregnancy Center), the new Women’s Care Center, and programs operated by Catholic Charities and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.
During Respect Life Month and throughout the year, let’s do what we can to help those who are building a culture of life in our communities.