Respect Life Ministry

The Diocese of Youngstown Office of Peace and Justice leads the Respect Life Ministry and Advocacy to support parishes and schools. Meagen Farrell, the director of communications and social concerns, manages the ministry and maintains a contact list for those interested in these initiatives.

The ministry coordinates several programs, including the Ohio March for Life held at the Statehouse in Columbus during October and the DOY Mass for Life held every January at the Cathedral to bless expectant families and pilgrims. The diocese also operates Walking With Moms in Need, a parish-based program that identifies and refers expectant mothers or families in difficult situations to local services.

For those seeking healing after an abortion, the diocese operates Project Rachel. This ministry uses a network of trained priests, religious, therapists, and laypersons to provide pastoral counseling, spiritual direction, support groups, and retreats. Project Rachel also offers referrals to licensed mental health professionals and provides a confidential helpline at 330-360-0430.