Project Rachel
“I would now 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 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.” Pope John Paul II – Evangelium Vitae, 99
It’s common to grieve a pregnancy loss, including the loss of a child by abortion. It can form a hole in one’s heart so deep that sometimes it seems nothing can fill the emptiness. Be assured that there is forgiveness, hope and healing—many women and men have participated in diocesan Project Rachel Ministries and returned to a loving relationship with God.
Project Rachel, the U.S. Catholic Church’s ministry to those who have been involved in abortion, is a diocesan-based network of specially trained priests, religious, counselors, and laypersons who provide a team response of care for those suffering in the aftermath of abortion. In addition to referring for Sacramental Reconciliation, the ministry provides an integrated network of services, including specially trained priests, support groups, retreats and referrals to licensed mental health professionals.
The Diocese of Bridgeport is committed to assisting those who are seeking help through the Entering Canaan model of healing. Please contact our confidential phone line at 203.416.1619 or email for more information.
Articles and Publications
The impact of abortion is far reaching. Sometimes, we are not aware of who it impacts and how. Creating awareness can help bring about understanding, compassion, hope and healing for many.
- Women and How Abortion Changed Their Lives—Society denies the impact abortion has but here is how it changed the lives of some women.
- Male Grief and Trauma Following Abortion—Men grieve after an abortion but are more likely to deny their grief or internalize their feelings of loss.
- Couples and Past Abortions—Can relationships be affected as well? Something to think about.
- Siblings Can Feel the Loss Too—Making sense of something missing and careful consideration.
- More Resources—Here are more articles and publications.
Featured Event
‘Into Life: Love Changes Everything’STAMFORD—Are you looking to enter deeper into the same spirituality of life from the Sisters of Life? In response to the overturning of Roe vs Wade and the diocesan call to serve women in need, Project Beloved, in cooperation with the Church of the Holy Spirit, will host “Into Life: Love Changes Everything”—a 12-part original series starting Tuesday, September 6, and running Tuesday nights from 7:30-8:30 pm at Church of the Holy Spirit parish hall, 403 Scofieldtown Rd., Stamford, Conn.
Related Resources
