Respect Life

Vermont Catholics are a Pro-Life People

At the heart of Catholicism is an abiding belief in the inherent worth and dignity of all human life. Whether you consider yourself a pro-life “activist” or “quiet Catholic,” you are a necessary part of building the culture of life, called to help promote a society that respects and defends all life, especially the most vulnerable: the unborn, disabled, sick and elderly. Catholics help feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, comfort the sick and dying and offer prayer and support to those in need. Catholics speak up on behalf of the unborn and fight for just laws that honor the dignity of all human life from conception until natural death.

The  USCCB Pastoral Plan for Pro-Life Activities organizes pro-life programming into four pillars. The Diocese of Burlington Respect Life Ministries do likewise.

Public Information and Education

Educate yourself and inform others about all the pro-life issues. Being educated about important pro-life issues and principles is key to effectively defend and promote them. Learn more about Respect Life Information and Education.

For Help on Medical Morality Questions

Deacon Pete Gummere can answer your questions on medical morality. He has a M.S. in Biological Science and a M.A. in Theology, is Certifiied in Catholic Healthcare Ethics from the National Catholic Bioethics Center, and is adjunct faculty of the Pontifical College Josephinum’s Diaconate Institute. He has published as a scientist and as a bioethicist.

You may reach Deacon Pete by e-mail: [email protected] or by phone: 802-748-3978.

Pastoral Care and Outreach

The culture of life will grow as long as we are each willing to play our part. While not everyone is called to full-time prolife ministry or advocacy, we are all called to help build the culture of life within our families and communities. What is God calling you to do? Learn about opportunities to build a culture of life with Respect Life Pastoral Care and Outreach.

Prayer and Worship

Prayer may be considered the most powerful tool we have for building a culture of life. Especially in a state like Vermont where abortion is widespread and assisted suicide is legal, initiatives that offer tangible opportunities to pray and fast in solidarity with others who are committed to promoting the sanctity of human life are important. Join one of the committed prayer groups listed on the Prayer and Worship page or begin one of your own.

Public Policy and Legislative Contacts

Participating in the Public Square has never been easier. Contacting your legislators at both the state and national levels to express your opinions about proposed legislation or to register concern over a particular issue is as simple as sending a text, writing an email or leaving a voicemail. Don’t know who your legislators are or how to contact them? Visit the Public Policy page to learn who and how.