Respect Life and Human Dignity

These ministries provide support and advocacy for those who can not care for themselves including the unborn, brothers and sisters with special needs as well as those facing unplanned pregnancies or dealing with the trauma of abortion.

Right to Life

• The ministry fosters appreciation for life from conception to natural death. It supports the Shady Grove Pregnancy Center through fundraisers, collections of needed supplies, and meal preparations for parenting class. The ministry also promotes the March for Life every January in Washington, DC.
• Coordinator: Wendel Hall, 202-744-3250

Project Rachael

• A post-abortion healing ministry that offers compassionate help to men and women who have experienced emotional and/or spiritual pain after abortion. Trained staff refers callers to licensed counselors or to priests specially trained in post-abortion concerns. We help our participants reconcile with God, child, family and themselves.
• Helpline: 301-853-4565; projectrachel@adw.org

Shady Grove Pregnancy Center

• The Center provides information about options available to those facing an unplanned or unwanted pregnancy. Trained counselors do so in a caring, supportive environment. Services are free, including pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, parenting classes and material assistance. Further information: 301-963-6223;
  www.pregnancy-options.org
• Parish Liaison needed

L’Arche

• This ministry provides safe housing, compassionate support services, and inclusion activities for people with intellectual disabilities. The organization is inspired by the vision of Jean Vanier that the best way to reveal the gifts and abilities of people with intellectual disabilities is to create a caring community, in which people can share their lives. Parishioners are invited to share in meals, fellowship and worship with the L’Arche community.
• Coordinator: Paul Popernack, 301-802-4792

Upcounty Community Resources

• The ministry promotes the full inclusion of persons with developmental differences into every aspect of community life. Activities include social outings, therapeutic classes, exercise groups, dances and special liturgical services for those with developmental differences.
• Coordinator: Deacon Dan Finn, 301-840-1407