Parish Rep How to Get Started (or Restarted)

Parish Respect Life Representative

How to Get Started (or Restarted)

Prayer Every day for guidance, the ministry, parish, family, life . . .

Study Educate yourself on the life issues -- start with:

The Gospel of Life (Pope John Paul II)

Pastoral Plan for Pro-Life Activities: A Campaign in Support of Life (U.S. Bishops)

Respect Life Ministry Manual & Newsletter (Diocese of Venice)

Action 1. Meet with your pastor --

Discuss what you've learned and your ideas.

Get his recommendations, especially regarding who to recruit.

2. Recruit a Co-Rep or Assistant Rep --

It's easier and more effective if you share the ministry.

Remember, Jesus sent the disciples out 2 by 2. Follow Him!

3. Recruit Committee Chairmen (2 each) for the basic Life Issues:

Beginning of Life

End of Life

Capital Punishment

Legislative Action

(public policy issues regarding Beginning of Life, End of Life & Capital Punishment as requested by NCHLA, USCCB, or FCC, through the DOV Respect Life Department)

-OR-

Form a core group responsible for planning activities. Recruit others to help with specific needs

You may also have a Youth Liaison to work with you Youth Minister regarding the life issues.

Recruit co-chairmen to share the responsibilities.

Copy the appropriate sections of the manual to give to prospective chairmen so they understand what they are being asked to do.

4. Have regular meetings with your Chairmen (monthly or bi-monthly).

Suggested meeting guidelines:

Prayer

Study Report/share/listen

Action Be sure to pray and study first.

Decide what to do next and plan it.

Make sure everyone has a job and knows what it is.

Build a team.

Have refreshments, socialize and get to know one another.

Make it fun!

5. Participate in diocesan and local events (Area Meetings, conferences, etc.), network with other Parish Reps and your Diocesan Respect Life staff.

6. Annually (summer) send a report of your activities for the year (July through June) and your plans for the next year to the Diocesan Respect Life Office (form will be provided).

Share, in advance also, for the Respect Life Ministry News.

Share the wonderful things that your committee does!