Blog

Dear brother priests and deacons, neighboring Parish Secretaries, High School leadership, Women’s Leadership, Principals, and Chancery leadership,

Since my time at Newman and before, I have become more and more aware of the need to change the standard of care provided to women.  Through talks on the “Genius of the Body” that we have offered regularly here at Newman, I’ve become concerned with the number of females who express not understanding well the functioning of the female body.  And this goes together with the sub standard healthcare they have experienced with a majority of healthcare providers, for example, offering women the quick fix of a pill, a pharmaceutical, contraceptives, in vitro fertilization, etc., which do not respond to the actual problems or issues women are facing.  Our Church is pro-woman and we need to significantly support women’s health holistically and ethically with healthcare that listens in order to provide for what their needs are and how God designed their bodies.

I’m working with a number of women in Columbia to establish a Women’s Health Clinic that will respond to these needs.  This is inspired by the Guiding Star Project (founded by Leah Jacobson, author of “Wholistic Feminism”):  https://guidingstarproject.com/  Such a Clinic will offer essential services such as fertility care, pregnancy care, lactation consultation, pre and post menopausal care, family support, and several other female health services.  Imagine a place where females can go during business hours to learn Natural Family Planning (NFP), feel safe, and know the care they receive aligns with their personal health needs on a regular basis.  This could be a culture changing service for Columbia and the surrounding area!

At this point, we need to gather some survey data regarding the interest from women.  Bishop McKnight is supportive of gathering information with a view toward supporting this project.  PLEASE HELP!  We have a very brief (7 question) electronic survey that we ask you to share with your parishioners via email, bulletin, social media, etc.  Please announce and encourage this survey during weekend Masses.  It will be available FOR THREE WEEKS over three weekends:  July 13 – July 31.

WHC (Women’s Health Center) Survey Link: https://forms.gle/m19TeMgVjN4gVCxJ8

QRCode for survey: 

Thank you for your help and your attention.  I feel passionate about this and welcome a conversation with you to elaborate on the vision and plans.  Please know of my prayers for you and your ministry.

Peace and All Good,

Fr. Dan