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One of the phrases we consider when planning each issue of FAITH magazine, is that we were created to “evangelize, not polarize.” The magazine invites readers into a wide range of faith-related topics through thoughtful, inspirational pieces. We know there are plenty of publications better-equipped to delve into issues that can cause deep division, even within the church.
However, when Deirdre McQuade, primary spokesperson on abortion and related life issues for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, came to the Erie Diocese to speak at the request of Students for Life at Clarion University, we saw a unique opportunity. Deirdre’s broad education, including master’s degrees in both philosophy and theology from the University of Notre Dame, and her impressive career as a researcher and administrator at organizations including Feminists for Life, coupled with her reputation as a bridge builder, convinced us it was time to explore the current thinking and leadership of the American bishops regarding abortion.
In a combination of remarks made at her evening presentation as well as during an interview the next day, here’s what Deirdre had to say:
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FAITH magazine: Can you give us a quick overview of the U.S. Bishops’ Pastoral Plan for Pro Life Activities?
Deirdre McQuade: It is one of the best kept secrets in the church in the United States, but the plan was first promulgated in 1975, two years after Roe vs. Wade legalized abortion in our country. It has been revised twice since then, most recently in 2001, after John Paul II’s encyclical, Evangelium vitae. The pope called in a particular way for the defense of innocent human life in the womb and also at the end of life.
The bishops’ plan has four pillars: public information and education; public policy, which involves advocating for laws that expand the protection for the unborn and keep up with issues such as stem cell research; pastoral care for those tempted to consider abortion or euthanasia; and finally, prayer and liturgy. As the body of Christ, we need to be working in all four areas.
FAITH: Your role falls mostly under public information and education.
Deirdre: The bishops established the position to help people understand this is the foremost human rights abuse issue in our age, right here within our own borders.
FAITH: You began your presentation last evening with a disclaimer, of sorts.
Deirdre: The question of abortion is a very emotional one, for really important reasons. Since approximately one in four pregnancies in the United States ends in abortion, many of us know somebody who has been involved in an abortion decision. I never accept an invitation to speak in order to accuse or judge anyone. I spoke in Clarion on behalf of the bishops of the United States’ Second Look Project and others who are working hard for the day when nobody has to go through what your mother, your sister, your cousin or your roommate went through in making a choice. I also always talk about the possibilities for healing. I think it’s an important part of the conversation.
FAITH: I think people were surprised to hear you say America is “trending” pro life.
Deirdre: When you ask people if they support abortion for virtually any reason throughout the nine months of pregnancy, they say no. But that’s the law as it now stands. Something like 40 percent of the country would support a total ban with the only exception being to save the life of the mother. And studies show that abortion is never necessary to save the life of a mother. In addition, many people do support regulations such as parental involvement laws. There’s a myth among pro life people that we’re in the minority.
The Second Look Project is an educational initiative designed to help people who may be ambivalent about pro life issues because they are not aware of the facts. It is also shoring up those whose convictions are already in place.
FAITH: Do you see progress within the pro life movement?
Deirdre: There’s been a shift as states have begun to regulate abortion. People see there are possibilities for giving women better options or more opportunity to consider their decision. Do you know there are more pregnancy health centers than abortion clinics in America? That’s a powerful statement. There are professionals and well-trained volunteers caring for women and men with various practical needs. We’re told by the Guttmacher Institute that the two main reasons women report for choosing abortion are lack of practical resources and lack of emotional support. Pregnancy help centers provide some of both.
The Guttmacher Institute, by the way, is the research branch of Planned Parenthood, and I think people should know Planned Parenthood is the single largest provider and promoter of abortions in the United States. Many Catholics are not aware of that.
FAITH: What can the average person do?
Deirdre: Keep the four pillars I mentioned in mind. Different people have different gifts, so we’re all called to different aspects of this issue. But everyone is called to build respect for human life in the way they’re able to do. We’re all called to stretch a little and to rely on God’s providence. Of course the most accessible thing everyone can do is pray: for a transformation of the culture, for families, for our communities, parishes, schools, workplaces and certainly the government. We need to really pray for those in culture-shaping leadership positions.
And then I would say people need to get educated. Visit www.SecondLookProject.org because knowledge is power. If people feel they can articulate the material in a way that is thoughtful, helpful and engaging, they won’t be afraid to be more publicly involved. They’ll consider attending events like the March for Life. It is so encouraging to see the faces of other people who believe the way you do. There are plenty of people of good will who are with us on this question.
FAITH: How do you deal with the polarization that surrounds this issue?
Deirdre: I take a lot of inspiration from Jesus’ encounter with the woman at the well. He meets someone in the midst of her confusion and shame, and he starts up a conversation based on where they were. He asks for a drink of water. He didn’t start a conversation with, “You should be pro-life!” He began building a relationship, and spoke to her in a loving, non-accusatory way. Can we do the same? A conversation includes both talking and listening. We need to have confidence in God’s leading us to meet people where they are, we need to acknowledge their truth and then build on it, offering better choices. It’s not about us making someone believe. If we can step out of the way and be an instrument for the Lord and the Gospel of Life, people respond.