Since its inception in July 2025, the Office of Pro-Life Ministries has sought new ways to foster a culture of life in the Diocese of Columbus. This includes establishing new ministries in the diocese.
“We want to focus on a more holistic approach to the pro-life movement,” said Fr. Bob Penhallurick, director of the Office of Pro-Life Ministries. “This means that while we continue to help moms in crisis and those suffering at the end of life, we also look at other issues in the pro-life movement.”
“One of the most important ministries we can offer is post-abortion healing,” said Mary Kristof, associate director of the Office of Pro-Life Ministries.
The Diocese is in the process of establishing a Project Rachel Ministry. Project Rachel operates at a diocesan level to help women and men find hope and healing after having an abortion. Project Rachel in the diocese will help connect those suffering from abortion to spiritual direction and counseling and it will host weekend retreats. The Office of Pro-Life Ministries will also continue to work with parishes that are hosting post-abortion healing Bible studies and other support groups.
“We will need volunteers to help answer the phone calls to the Project Rachel hotline, as well as prayer partners. Prayer is at the heart of Project Rachel, and we’ll need all of the prayers we can get!” Kristof said.
The Office of Pro-Life Ministries would like to bring Be Not Afraid Ministries to the diocese. Be Not Afraid Ministries trains patient care coordinators to accompany parents who have received an adverse prenatal diagnosis. These patient care coordinators help parents through some of the most difficult times in their life. The Office of Pro-Life Ministries is looking for volunteers, particularly those in the medical field, who would be interested in going through the training and helping parents.
Additionally, the Office of Pro-Life Ministries would like to encourage more people to participate in their parish Respect Life group.
“The church is on the frontlines of our culture,” Father Penhallurick said. “We want people to know that their church is there to support them in moments of crisis. We want to show people the joy of life and empower them to choose life with our support.”
The Office of Pro-Life Ministries has been working closely with parishes to address their concerns and find the best way forward to create a culture of life at the local church level. It will continue to work with parishes to create a new model of parish pro-life ministry.
If you are interested in volunteering, contact Mary Kristof at prolife@columbuscatholic.org or call 614-241-2450 ext. 5.
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