Respect Life

The Respect Life Ministry office of the Oakland Diocese seeks to help East Bay Catholics understand, value, and live out the Catholic vision of respect for life. Respect Life Ministry carries out its work in four areas: education, respect life ministry support, pastoral care, and legislative advocacy.

While the Respect Life office chiefly addresses the issues of abortion, euthanasia and capital punishment, it collaborates with other diocesan departments in addressing broader social justice issues. In embracing a consistent ethic of life, we are attentive to the Gospel’s all-encompassing vision of respect for life, even as we deliberately devote our efforts and attention to a more focused agenda.

Programs

	Change for Life Campaign The month of October is designated as “Respect Life” month by the US Bishops. In support of “Respect Life” month the Diocese of Oakland is sponsoring the Change for Life baby bottle fundraising campaign. The purpose of *Change for Life Campaign* is to raise awareness and raise funds for prolife organizations within the Diocese.
	The Gabriel Project The Gabriel Project is a parish-based program that offers immediate, practical assistance for pregnant women in need of help. For more information call 1-800-910-0191
	After the Choice Ministry After the Choice Ministry for women and men and family members struggling to heal after abortion(s). Individual assistance, weekend retreats, and support-groups are available to help men and women experience forgiveness, and reconcile with God and the Church. All inquiries are strictly confidential. For more information, including printed materials, call 1-888-HOPE-790 (415-260-4406).
	Bay Area Crisis Pregnancy Centers View some of the resources available to the Alameda and Contra Costa counties for those who may be expecting. These centers offer a wide variety of resouces, including pregnancy testing, parenting classes, and more.