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Respect Life Manual
Post Abortion
Reconciliation and Healing
What does the Church say to women who are experiencing the
aftermath of abortion?
Evangelium Vitae (The Gospel of Life) 1995, #99
"I would like to say a special word to women who have had an abortion. The
Church is aware of the many factors which may have influenced your decision, and
she does not doubt that in many cases it was a painful and even shattering
decision. The wound in your heart may not yet have healed. Certainly what
happened was and remains terribly wrong. But do not give in to discouragement
and do not lose hope. Try rather to understand what happened and face it
honestly. "If you have not already done so, give yourselves over with
humility and trust to repentance. The Father of mercies is ready to give you his
forgiveness and his peace in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. You will come to
understand that nothing is definitely lost and you will also be able to ask
forgiveness from your child, who is now living in the Lord."
RESOURCES AND
INFORMATION
What is Project Rachel?
Project Rachel is named for the Old Testament figure who wept
over the loss of her child. Like Rachel, many women discover that the loss
experienced after an abortion leaves them traumatized and inconsolable. In their
experience of pain and regret, they long for a merciful and compassionate
response from the Catholic Church. Project Rachel is such a response. It is an
outreach of the Catholic Church to women who are struggling with the aftermath
of abortion.
Who should I call for more
information on Project Rachel programs?
To take the first step
toward healing, reconciliation and peace, we ask you to contact the Project
Rachel by telephone, e-mail, or letter for referral to a priest, companion or
counselor. ALL CONTACTS ARE CONFIDENTIAL. A single
phone call puts you in touch with someone who can help. Call
toll-free in Florida, (877) 908-1212, send e-mail to
project.rachel@dioceseofvenice.org.
See the national Project
Rachel website for more information at www.hopeafterabortion.com.
An informational brochure (in English or Spanish) is available upon
request.
RACHEL'S VINEYARD
In addition, Rachel's
Vineyard is a retreat program which helps those suffering after
abortion in a group setting, usually over a weekend. Retreats often are
sponsored by local Project Rachel offices, as well as counseling centers
and retreat houses. For information or retreat schedules contact
Marina toll-free at (877) 908-1212 or email
project.rachel@dioceseofvenice.org. You may also visit
www.rachelsvineyard.org
or call the national toll-free hotline at (877) HOPE-4-ME.
National Office of Post-Abortion Reconciliation and Healing
Also, the National
Office of Post-Abortion Reconciliation and Healing (NOPARH) sponsors a
nation-wide referral service for those seeking help after abortion. For a
referral contact NOPARH at (800) 5WE-CARE, or access its website at www.noparh.org.
ARTICLES & FACT SHEETS FROM THE USCCB
ON POST-ABORTION
Post-Abortion
Outreach Unveiled, February 3, 2000
List
of books and cds that may be borrowed from the Respect
Life Department.
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