PROVIDENCE —?The Elizabeth Ministry is a diocesan outreach program that empowers women to reach out to each other for support. For 11 years, this ministerial program has been the parish response to needs of women during the joys and sorrows of childrearing years.
St. John Vianney Church in Cumberland is one of several parishes that still provide this important ministry.
The women involved in this ministry are matched with an Elizabeth Ministry volunteer who has had a similar experience, such as pregnancy, infertility, adoption, miscarriage as well as many other aspects of childbearing. Women participating in this program can confide in others who have gone through similar personal situations and feel comfortable asking questions and seeking advice.
Respect Life Office Coordinator Carol Owens explained that these ministry volunteers are not counselors or experts. They are volunteers who generously respond to the needs of other women in the parish community.
“They might laugh and cry together,” said Owens. “Elizabeth volunteers affirm, support, encourage and assist women during this unique time in their lives.”
Through Elizabeth Ministry, women become mentors to other women in their parish, offering companionship, support, prayers and understanding through visits and telephone calls.
The name of this ministry is grounded in the Scripture passage of the visitation of Mary and Elizabeth, a story that reflects the strong relationships of women who support each other.
Owens explained that this is one of the most profound examples of sharing faith in all Scripture and that the sanctity of life and power of the Spirit is revealed in the common sharing of these two women.
“Throughout the generations women have repeated this story,” said Owens. “Elizabeth Ministry carries on this tradition of maternal mentoring.”
Owens explained that the ministry program empowers volunteers to reach out in a personal and caring manner during all areas of childbearing.
“Families and friends are not always nearby when a woman is experiencing various aspects of childrearing,” said Owens. “The Elizabeth volunteer befriends the woman in need.”
For more information about the Elizabeth Ministry, call Carol Owens, diocesan Respect Life Office Coordinator at 421-7833, ext. 118.
