respect life ministry
Our Mission
To promote within our church community a culture where every human being is valued and protected throughout their human life. We seek to create awareness of the life-affirming positions of the Roman Catholic Church regarding these most vulnerable moments in life.
Our Approach
• Education over protest — Sharing the wisdom of the Catholic faith to help convert hearts and minds on all life issues.
• Empathy over indifference — Offering an understanding ear and open mind to enable meaningful dialogue around sensitive life issues.
• Unity over division — Creating a welcoming environment where all viewpoints can be shared to find common ground among our fellow parishioners.
• The power of prayer — Placing prayer at the heart of all our ministry efforts.
Focus Areas
Pro-Life, Mental Health, Domestic Violence, Assisted Suicide
Welcome
“Human life is a precious gift from God; each person who receives this gift has responsibilities toward God, self, and others; and society, through its laws and social institutions, must protect and nurture human life at every stage of its existence.”
Please explore this page to learn more about our mission, focus areas, and opportunities to get involved. We welcome your comments and your support.
Contact: Maureen Durack ·
Maureen.durack2@gmail.com
Pro-Life
We celebrate life that begins at conception and join with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops to promote Walking with Moms and support Pregnancy Resource Centers in our community.
Baby Bottle Campaign
Each Mother’s Day, the Respect Life Ministry sponsors our Baby Bottle Campaign benefiting The Women’s Center of Greater Chicagoland. This non-profit organization assists mothers and families experiencing crisis pregnancies by offering emotional, financial, material, and spiritual support through counseling, clothing and monetary provisions, prayer, and other aid.
More Information: Women's Center of Greater Chicagoland
Mental Health Ministry
St. Edna has joined with St. James and Our Lady of the Wayside to provide support, education, and awareness to our parish communities on issues related to mental health. We seek to break down the social stigma surrounding these issues, provide information, local resources, and educational and spiritual support.
Grace Prayer Circle
On the first Wednesday of each month, the Mental Health Ministry Team hosts a Grace Prayer Circle. You can join us as we pray or simply submit a name.
Mass for Comfort & Joy
Hosted in December at Our Lady of the Wayside, this Mass offers comfort through uplifting music and scripture, followed by fellowship during a complimentary meal.
Save the date: Our Lady of the Wayside on December 5.
Domestic Violence
Each October, the Respect Life Ministry brings awareness to the community by hanging purple ribbons and providing education about Domestic Violence.
More Information: Domestic Violence Outreach
WINGS Support
In partnership with the Men’s Club, we sponsor a clothing and household goods drive during the Santa Breakfast in December to benefit WINGS, which serves families fleeing domestic violence.
More Information: WINGS
A Prayer for Pregnant Mothers
O Blessed Mother, you received the good news of the incarnation of Christ, your Son, with faith and trust. Grant your protection to all pregnant mothers facing difficulties. Guide us as we strive to make our parish communities places of welcome and assistance for mothers in need. Help us become instruments of God’s love and compassion.
Mary, Mother of the Church, graciously help us build a culture of life and a civilization of love, together with all people of good will, to the praise and glory of God, the Creator and lover of life.
Amen.
