In this issue . . . . a "New Year" and "Spring cleaning" on its way, begs us to take a look at what people are doing in the dioceses. Almost every article is for diocesan programming and is a virtual "Coordinators' Corner." But before you think about programming, take a look at Bishop Sartain's inspiring reflection on Responsible Parenthood. We hope this will give you some good ideas as you move NFP into the future!

What is Diocesan NFP Ministry?

"Nuts and Bolts" of NFP Ministry
Donna Dausman

"Endorsement"---Focusing Diocesan NFP Efforts
Jeff & Alice Heinzen

Goals & Objectives--A Primer

"What A Long, Strange Trip It's Been!"
Michael Stone

An Overview of NFP Ministry in the Diocese of Orange
Carmela Treanor

NFP Tradition in the Archdiocese of San Antonio
Henrietta O'Connor

Moving in New Directions--Growing a Diocesan NFP Program
Rose Jacobs

NFP and Marriage Preparation

Responsible Parenthood--Theological and Pastoral Principles

NFP on the Radar Screen to Help Marriages
Warren Dazzio

"The Horse or the Cart?" "What Comes First?"
Bob Laird

"BOM in Pakistan"
Marian Corkill

Pastoral Letter of the Catholic Bishops Conference of pakistan on Natural Family Planning and Responsible Parenthood (Excerpts)

News Brief

Diocesan NFP Ministry

Diocesan NFP ministry is one of the most challenging ministries in the Church today. It is also one of the most needed because it enables married couples to live God's truth of life and love. As the Holy Father said in Evangelium vitae

At the first stage of life, centers for natural methods of regulating fertility should be promoted as a valuable help to responsible parenthood, in which all individuals, and in the first place the child, are recognized and respected in their own right and where every decision is guided by the ideal of the sincere gift of self. (EV, #88)

The primary focus of diocesan NFP ministry is the provision of quality NFP services to married and engaged couples within the context of the Church's teachings on human sexuality, conjugal love and responsible parenthood.

Diocesan NFP ministry is integrated into the structure of the diocese, with an NFP coordinator appointed by the bishop. It exists in the diocesan structure in a variety of forms. Most are a program of the Marriage and Family Life office, others operate in a Catholic hospital, or under Catholic Charities. Some are departments in and of themselves or separate non-profit organizations that have been "adopted" by the local diocese. Like other ministries in a diocese, NFP ministry is varied and requires more than "theological know-how" or understanding of programming the faith. It involves health care issues, specifically those having to do with human fertility. That means that the diocesan NFP services must reflect sound understanding of the scientific methodologies of NFP, human behavior--especially with regard to the couple relationship--and basic principles of adult education. Consequently the diocesan NFP coordinator and teachers wear two hats--one of the fertility educator and the other of a minister on marriage and family life.

NFP Program or Ministry?

When establishing NFP services in a diocese, some can become confused over the terms "program" and "ministry." The word "program" in the NFP teaching community, was often used to refer to a single "system" of NFP. An NFP system is the individual approach to NFP methodology where specific guidelines and emphases work together to create a unique structure of client education and service. Examples of NFP systems in the United States are: Billings Ovulation Method Association (BOMA), Couple to Couple League (CCL), Creighton Model FertilityCare^TM System, Family of the Americas, Marquette Model NFP and Northwest Family Services. NFP systems are offered through the NFP teacher training programs. Sometimes a diocese has its own NFP system which was created by local NFP pioneers. Diocesan NFP ministry often provides one or more systems of NFP. Thus the terms "program" and "ministry" can and should be used interchangeably when referring to diocesan NFP activities.

Nuts and Bolts of Diocesan NFP Ministry

Building diocesan NFP services requires a few basic "nuts and bolts." According to the Standards for Diocesan NFP Ministry, the programming of diocesan NFP ministry should be governed by the following basic components: a statement of philosophy; clear goals and objectives; program guidelines (policy); and approved client curricula (See Standards, pp. 5-8; 13-15). Because diocesan NFP ministry treats a sensitive and complex subject in the lives of the faithful, many other kinds of expertise are often sought to help in the work. In a diocese where sound NFP ministry is provided, you can find NFP-only-doctors, nurses, priest-counselors, and of course the heart of the program--certified NFP teachers.

Diocesan NFP teachers are the "main-frame" of the ministry. They teach couples and are "on call" for any kind of client question. They do witness talks for marriage preparation. Often they are invited to provide chastity talks to adolescents in the high schools or human sexuality presentations to clergy. This work and more (depending upon the diocese), they do as generous volunteers who also have families and other obligations.

Much more could be said about diocesan NFP ministry, but we did not want to tire our readers with our own insights. We had a better idea--let the diocesan NFP coordinators speak to you! Take a look at the following articles and later, visit our web site (usccb.org/prolife/issues/nfp) where you can read the Standards for Diocesan NFP Ministry and other interesting materials. We hope that these articles will inspire you to build or strengthen NFP ministry in your diocese!


Diocesan NFP Ministry--"Nuts & Bolts"
Donna Dausman

When asked to write this article on the nuts and bolts of diocesan NFP ministry, I admit I was stymied. I just sat there looking at the computer screen. "Nuts and bolts" was the request. That meant diverse issues such as: integrating different NFP systems into the diocesan program; whether to include all NFP classes or just diocesan classes into the advertizing; fee schedules; the "how to" on continuing education and affirmation for teachers, etc. I looked at the list and thought to myself, "Well, most of these need to be addressed at the local level."

Each diocesan NFP ministry has its individual needs, diocesan structure, geographic and demographic make up. In addition, a variety of people with their own unique personalities and gifts can also be found working in NFP ministry. The key principle is to design a structure to best meet the needs of your diocese. There are a number of factors to consider as building blocks to put into place. For example, it is desirable to be able to offer as many NFP systems as possible in a diocese. But how can one person integrate these NFP systems effectively? Much will depend on the people involved. As a first step the diocesan NFP coordinator could familiarize him/herself with each NFP system represented in the diocese. That means not only looking at the methodology they provide but also understanding any programming policies they may have. In order to work with the many different teachers, you may want to occasionally plan a social. What better way to get to know someone then in a non-work environment? "Public Relations" is something which NFPers often neglect. In a diocese there probably will be a communications department with a PR policy in place. Why not meet with them to see how they can help you. As for a "fee schedule"--before you design one, consider the local and national economy. In addition, you may have to reconcile your diocesan policy with that of an individual NFP system's policy.

When you turn your attention to teachers' meetings you will need to consider their hectic family lives and the distances from their homes to your meeting places. You may be able to more easily facilitate their attendance at meetings if child care is provided. Or, make use of E-mail if all teachers have access to a computer. The same may apply for continuing education. Avoid the temptation to drown your teachers in information. Choose only the important things you want them to know. Also, be mindful of resources you can collect for their use--create a lending library. Whatever the situation, providing a time when teachers can actually gather at least once a year (if not more), is vital to NFP ministry. Those gatherings allow teachers to discuss difficult charts, receive current NFP news, provide time for reflection and prayer, and foster the type of camaraderie that builds the NFP community and lifts the spirit of those involved.

As for the task of supporting clients, similar issues that impact your teachers will impact your clients. Factor in the geography of your diocese. Is it mostly urban or rural? If rural, perhaps videos, newsletters, and E-mail will be the best means of education. If urban, perhaps on-site events such as an evening guest speaker or a day-long workshop will be manageable. And when you plan an on-site event be sure to check the diocesan calendar. Try not to choose a date that will compete with another diocesan-wide event. In addition, be mindful of the liturgical calendar. For example, it's never a good idea to plan a rigorous educational workshop on Holy Saturday!

Although each diocese is different and each NFP ministry unique, the basic elements discussed above form some of the "nuts and bolts" of all diocesan NFP ministry. Take off your NFP hat for a moment and put on the hardware store hat. See those nuts and bolts? Do they look alike? Of course not. They are different in size and shape. Can each function independently of the other? Not in most circumstances. Nuts and bolts need to interact, to bond, to work together to get the best result. That reflects diocesan NFP ministry. If it's going to work, if it's going to grow, to become an important integral part of the overall diocesan structure, then the nuts and bolts have to work together. Whether we're talking about different NFP systems working together or NFP working with different diocesan ministries, the answer is still the same--COOPERATION. Working together is essential for the greater good of diocesan NFP ministry.

_______________________
Donna Dausman is the director of the Office of Family and Youth Ministry, Diocese of Springfield, IL. Donna is also a member of the bishops' NFP National Advisory Board.

"Do you need to renew?"
Endorsement of diocesan NFP programs is valid for only five years. For those diocesan NFP programs which have reached the end of their Endorsement term, the DDP/NFP has sent renewal forms.
Don't delay. Please take a moment and complete your forms for Endorsement renewal and send them to us.
We can't wait to send you your new certificates!


"Endorsement"---Focusing Diocesan NFP Efforts
Jeff & Alice Heinzen

In the spring of 1993 Bishop John Paul for the Diocese of La Crosse sent a letter to the National Conference of Catholic Bishops' Diocesan Development Program for Natural Family Planning (DDP/NFP) requesting national endorsement information. During that summer, after the untimely death of the diocesan NFP coordinator, we were commissioned as the new program directors. Shortly thereafter, an information packet from the DDP/NFP arrived. What was our first task as brand new coordinators? You guessed it- complete the Endorsement packet within the allotted time frame!

Looking back at our baptism by fire into the NFP world, we both have to laugh at how little we knew, but how quickly we learned. In this article we offer our wisdom on the Endorsement process, as well as our sincere hope that all dioceses will consider walking through the process.

The first step in the Endorsement process for us was the creation of a Steering Committee that would be in charge of all phases of this project and communicate all actions to the Bishop. This group's membership included the Director of the Family Life Office, the husband of the previous NFP coordinator and the new diocesan coordinators. Our first task was to assess the current NFP situation in our diocese by collecting all relevant data (number of NFP instructors currently in the diocese, what NFP models were being used, when and where classes were being held, and what follow-up services were being offered). It took this committee six months to gather and analyze all the information.

At that point, the steering committee entered the next step of the process, which we called "action planning." An Advisory Committee of about 15 individuals was formed and asked to successfully develop the mission statement, goals and objectives of the NFP diocesan program. Teacher representatives from all the NFP models within the diocese (Billings Ovulation Method Association, Couple to Couple League, Creighton, and Northwest Family Services) along with physicians, clergy, and marriage preparation personnel were actively involved in this step. It took 18 months to complete.

The Advisory committee met three times during the first nine months to develop the program's mission statement and goals. The group used an interactive process that identified the strengths, weaknesses and opportunities of the NFP Program and threats to it. After lengthy discussion and fervent prayer, the committee agreed upon a mission statement and six program goals. Once the mission and goals were established, the committee split into sub-committees for the next nine months to develop the objectives within each of the goal areas. Specifically, the areas that were studied included:

clergy education regarding NFP

the inclusion of NFP in marriage preparation

updating the medical community regarding the benefits of NFP

standardization of chastity education to include fertility awareness

provision of affirmation to couples who chose NFP

increasing the human and fiscal resources of the NFP program.

Each sub-committee met individually to create achievable objectives within their focus area. Every three months, representatives from each sub-committee met together to receive feedback on their work. The result of this phase of the process was a complete NFP action plan for the Diocese of La Crosse, which was presented to the Bishop and approved.

While the Advisory Committee was completing its work, the Steering Committee was attending to most of the paperwork required by the Endorsement process. The DDP/NFP assigned two national reviewers to assist us with part of the work. Both our reviewers were readily available to us, answering our questions and appraising our work efforts. Their input was invaluable to our success.

Finally, in 1996, the Steering and Advisory Committees met together to review the final draft of the national Endorsement application. After a few minor changes, the completed paperwork was sent to the DDP/NFP for their review. On January 31, 1997, a special package arrived from the USCCB with our Endorsement certificate!

Was it worth it to seek and achieve the USCCB Endorsement? ABSOLUTELY! Since our first meeting in 1993 we have made progress toward many of the goals set out in the planning process. Here are some of the highlights:

A Fall Clergy Conference - "NFP Today," by Msgr. William Smith, Dunwoody, NY

An increase from 4 NFP instructors to 19 with a target set at 28

An increase of over 200% in couples taking classes

Adding 3 physicians who have been trained at Pope Paul VI Institute in Omaha, NE

Development of three regional NFP centers serving the diocese

Development of diocesan NFP awareness materials (brochures, newsletter, website, bulletin inserts)

Assisting with the creation of Project Genesis, a human sexuality curriculum

Providing NFP classes at six of the eight Catholic hospitals

Providing NFP introductory presentations to 430 couples in 2001

Working with 1700+ youth and 950 adults in 2001 on chastity education

Our present Advisory Committee has 15 members and meets annually to review the targets set for the previous year and to establish goals for the coming 12 months. Accountability to our action plan has allowed our program to grow and flourish. Having a working plan keeps our efforts focused and our progress steady.

We are also blessed to have a Bishop who constantly encourages and supports us. Because of Bishop Raymond Burke's strong belief in NFP, our program is a permanent part of the diocesan curia. Under his care, both our human and fiscal resources continue to increase. We must mention however, that part of our action plan is to keep all channels of communication open with the Bishop. Each year, we meet with Bishop Burke to review the previous year and consult about the coming one. Tracking the progress made in each of our target areas has been critical to our open communication with Bishop Burke.

This article would be remiss without recognizing our predecessor Barbara Johnson. Her "Johnny Appleseed" approach to sowing the seeds of NFP throughout the diocese (including the seed of NFP in our own lives) still bears fruit today. Barbara passed away in 1993 from cancer, however, not before asking the current Bishop to name us as the new NFP Coordinators. We owe much for the blessings we have enjoyed to her and her beloved husband Barney. Thus, we gratefully dedicate this article to them, thanking them for the gift of Natural Family Planning and the journey of faith it has provided.
________________________
Jeff and Alice Heinzen are the NFP Co-coordinators for the Diocese of La Crosse.


Goals & Objectives--A Primer
An excerpt from "Strengthening Diocesan NFP Ministry." A Workbook for Implementing the Standards for Diocesan NFP Ministry.

Often, people move through life in intuitive or even automatic ways. For some activities, that may be the best way to operate; however, there are other times when a conscious and methodical approach are better. Identifying program goals and creating objectives fall into this later category. Clear goals and objectives are practical instruments to help the diocesan NFP coordinator build a stronger program and better services.

Successful diocesan NFP coordinators know that there are program management skills which are essential to the growth of NFP ministry. Identifying goals and objectives is an important management skill, and not all that difficult to learn. Just keep two simple definitions in mind:

Goal = The Destination
(Where you want to go.)

Objective = The Road Taken
(How you will get there.)

The philosophy statement of diocesan NFP ministry explains WHY the services exist, but it is through achievable goals and objectives that the philosophy "comes alive." For example, if an NFP coordinator wants to attract more clients, then a realistic strategy to accomplish the task must be created. Consultation with the diocesan NFP advisory board and/or NFP teachers may prove very helpful at this point. NFP staff can "put their heads together" and identify realistic steps that can be taken to target different groups for potential clients.

It is also important to remember that there are two different categories of goals--short and long term. Some goals are easily attained and measured. Others take a long time to achieve. Both must be attended to because diocesan NFP services not only provide "fertility education" but also participate in the Church's overall ministry to the engaged and married.

Knowledge, practical planning, creative thinking, team work and a good helping of faith are the ingredients which will help you build your diocesan NFP program. The following are aides to assist you to identify helpful goals and objectives.

___________________________________________________

GOALS are . . . . . . . . . . . .

SIMPLE

State the desired outcome.

NOT -- "Recruit new teachers."

BUT -- "Five new people will be identified and trained as teachers within the next year."

Use precise words.

NOT -– "NFP teachers will know NFP method effectiveness rates."

BUT -- "NFP teachers will be given information on NFP effectiveness rates and tested in December."

State the desired outcome in positive language.

NOT -- "Get priests to be supportive."

BUT -- "Provide education on NFP to priests."

NOT -- "Increase client numbers."

BUT -- "Increase client numbers by 5% within six months."

Identify an ongoing important activity or issue.

NOT -– "All Catholics will understand and accept the teachings of Humanae vitae."

BUT -- "Provide continuing education on the Church's teachings regarding human sexuality, conjugal love and responsible parenthood."

These are the steps taken to reach the goal.

NOT -- "Call all NFP clients inviting them to become a teacher."

BUT -- "Request NFP teachers to submit names of clients who would be potential teacher candidates."

Write statements that say what tasks need to be undertaken.

NOT -- "Clergy education days need to be organized."

BUT -- "Plan a clergy education day by May 5."

Estimate how long a specific task will take--be realistic.

NOT -- "Develop a sliding fee schedule."

BUT -- "Develop a sliding fee schedule within a month."

The objective itself must be evaluated.
(This is critical to the achievement of the goal.)

NOT – "Teachers will be questioned on their knowledge of NFP effectiveness rates."

BUT -- "An objective test will be administered to teachers on NFP effectiveness rates on December 10."

1. The Ordinary Magisterium, i.e., the Pope and the Bishops in their local churches, has the duty and responsibility to teach on matters pertaining to faith and morals.
   
   
2. By virtue of the pastoral office proper to him, it is the duty and responsibility of the Bishop in his local church to instruct his priests in their pastoral ministries of preaching, teaching and counseling.
   
   
3. The encyclical Humanae vitae, which declares without ambiguity, doubt or hesitation the objective evil of the contraceptive act, is an authentic expression of this Magisterium and is to be understood in accord with the dogmatic tradition of the Church concerning the assent due to the teachings of the Ordinary Magisterium (cf. Lumen gentium, no. 25)
   
   
4. Those who receive canonical faculties of a diocese are assumed to intend to communicate this teaching, according to the traditional norms of the Church, to those under their care.

1. Conscience is the practical judgment or dictate of reason by which one judges what here and now is to be done as being good, or to be avoided as evil.
   
   
2. In the light of the above, the role of conscience is that of a practical dictate, not a teacher of doctrine.
   
   
3. Conscience is not a law unto itself and in forming one's conscience one must be guided by objective moral norms, including authentic Church teaching (cf. Gaudium et spes, no. 50).
   
   
4. Particular circumstances surrounding an objectively evil human act, while they cannot make it objectively virtuous, can make it "inculpable, diminished in guilt or subjectively defensible," (For full context see Human Life in Our Day; Collective Pastoral of the American Hierarchy, Nov. 15, 1968, p. 2, no. 2).
   
   
5. In the final analysis, conscience is inviolable and no man is to be forced to act in a manner contrary to his conscience, as the moral tradition of the Church attests (Human Life in Our Day, p. 14).

1. In the task of counseling married persons, either inside or outside the confessional, the pastoral counselor may encounter a question concerning the practice of contraception. The counselor is obliged in conscience to follow the previously mentioned principles in accordance with the pastoral prudence and doctrinal truth required for guiding the person or persons who consult him.
   
   
2. While the counselor has the obligation to render an objective judgment on the data presented to him, he should not too quickly presume either complete innocence, on the one hand, or, on the other, a deliberate rejection of God's loving commands in the case of a person who is honestly trying to lead a good Christian life (cf. Sex in Marriage, Love-giving, Life-giving. Archdiocese of Washington, 1968. p. 2, no. 2).
   
   
3. Sound pastoral practice is always based upon firm faith in the mercy of God and the forgiving power of Christ, but also on the necessity and availability of God's grace, to persevere in the friendship of Christ in all moral crises (cf. Jn. 15:5; II Cor. 12:9; Humanae vitae, no., 20; St. Thomas Aquinas, Summa Theologica Ia Iiae Q. 109, a. 6.2.)

Today in newspapers we read stories filled with conflict and much sadness. Especially since September eleventh, many of us may be tempted to ask negative questions such as, "What good could come from countries like Afghanistan or Pakistan?" The answer is "Lots of good!" There are good people everywhere in the world. The following story is offered as a sign of hope that despite the fact that some people engage in evil activities, there are many other people trying to do good things.

_________________________

BOM in Pakistan
Marian Corkill

Forty years ago Fr. Daniel McCaffrey (NFP Outreach, OK) was pastor at Fatima Parish, Karachi, Pakistan. His love of the Pakistani people and his desire to spread NFP in Pakistan led him back in November of 2000. There he met with bishops to encourage them to spread the message of NFP to their people.

The bishops and priests have been slow to promote NFP in Pakistan because the topic of sexuality is considered "taboo." Fr. Daniel convinced them however, that now was the time to do something positive for their people. Throughout the world, and in particular in developing countries, the pressures for contraceptive population control are intense. Pakistan has largely been spared the U.N. Population Control assault due to its Islamic rule. But a change seems to be coming--promotional billboards for Depo-provera are already in the streets of every major city. Fr. McCaffrey explained that beginning with the Christian people, the message of the truth about human sexuality and NFP information will help the people confront the contraceptive pressure. The bishops agreed and through Bishop Lovo, Director of the Family Life Commission, an intensive training and promotional program was planned. To coincide with this program the bishops issued a Pastoral Letter on NFP (see excerpts, p. ).

On February 15, 2001, Fr. McCaffrey returned to Karachi with two senior teachers from the World Organisation Ovulation Method Billings (WOOMB), Australia, Marian Corkill and Gillian Barker.

The program was a huge success. The teaching programs lasted four days and were presented in three cities, Karachi, Lahore, and Multan. Four programs were provided, the first in English and the other three in Urdu. The programs in Urdu required translation. Many of the scientific words were not familiar to the translators. Emmanuel Neno, the Director of the Catechetical Centre in Karachi, who has the reputation as the best translator in the country, took on the task of translating all three Urdu courses. He was assisted by Pervez Rodericks from Rawalpindi. Without these two dedicated men the programs would not have been a success. Before the first Urdu program, Mr. Neno had translated a chart explaining the BOM into Urdu. Five-hundred copies were printed and distributed. A total of over 90 people were trained as teachers!

Although the bishops had asked that each diocese send four couples to the courses, the programs were not without difficulties. The organizers had warned that sexuality in general was a difficult subject to approach. In addition, men and women very rarely worked together and certainly never discussed sexuality together. It was suggested that even married couples did not discuss sexuality with each other. To complicate matters, Pakistan has an illiteracy rate of 75% and some of the participants were illiterate.

The planned programs were interactive and intensive. Four days were used to complete the material. Taking a "see what will happen" approach, Marian and Gillian decided that both men and women should be together in the classes. What happened amazed everyone! The couples responded extremely well together, accepting the presence of single people and religious in the group. Very quickly they were responding and asking questions. The questions revealed many of the superstitions and beliefs about sexuality which have been preventing them from really loving each other for so long! All participants were so receptive to the message that the wisdom of the Creator was apparent.

Marian and Gillian gave both the scientific and practical application of the BOM while Fr. McCaffrey presented the Church's teachings. The role of Fr. McCaffrey was essential as he was able to talk about God's plan for marriage and how sexuality is a gift form God and not something wrong, but rather a way of worshiping God. This was a revolutionary concept for many of the people.

Although the level of education varied among the participants, all left the program knowing of the importance of the G, L, S, and P mucus and how to chart. They could all recognize a Peak and that if a Peak was not recognized the next bleeding would not be menstruation but was a withdrawal or breakthrough bleeding and Early Day Rule No. 3 was to be applied. The application of the four rules of the BOM were clearly understood. There was audible relief when the women realized that the discharge they had thought was dirty or needed treatment was in fact the sign of their fertility! The only Muslim to attend the sessions was very impressed and planned to spread the good news to all who will listen. She saw NFP as a way to bring the two religions closer together.

Outside of the teacher training, the faculty was kept busy with promotional talks. Arrangements had been made for Fr. McCaffrey to speak to priests and religious in each of the six dioceses of Pakistan. This found him traveling the length and breadth of the country! While in Karachi, Fr. McCaffrey preached at all of the Masses at two English speaking parishes. Marian and Gillian also gave NFP witness at most of these Masses as well as to a session for the priests of Karachi. The teachers also spoke to over thirty doctors and nurses at a Muslim maternity hospital in Karachi. At the completion of this presentation, the chief doctor requested that further in-services be given to the staff so that they were all conversant with the BOM. Sixty staff and students at the Holy Family Hospital, Karachi, also attended a further session as did fifty students and staff at the National Pastoral Institute in Multan. The team also presented a session to seminarians in Youhanabad.

The team returned to their homes with great hopes for the future of the BOM in Pakistan. Marian Corkill reflected: "We have had a wonderful experience and know we have changed the lives of many people forever. We know also that our lives have been changed and for this we are grateful to God."

____________________________
Marian Corkill is a senior teacher of WOOMB. The Catholic Relief Services of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops assisted with the funding of this teacher training program.


Pastoral Letter of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Pakistan on Natural Family Planning and Responsible Parenthood (Excerpts)

I The Situation and the Problem

Among the many difficulties that parents encounter today, one certainly stands out: giving children an adequate preparation for adult life, particularly with regard to education in the true meaning of sexuality. In the past, even when the family did not provide specific sexual education, the general culture was permeated by respect for fundamental values and hence served to protect and maintain them. In the greater part of society, both in developed and developing countries, the decline of traditional models has left children deprived of consistent and positive guidance, while parents find themselves unprepared to provide adequate answers. This new context is made worse by what we observe: an eclipse of the truth about human beings, which ... exerts pressure to reduce sex to something commonplace. In this area, society and the mass media ... provide depersonalized, recreational and often pessimistic information. Moreover, this information does not take into account the different stages of formation and development of children and young people, and it is influenced by a distorted individualistic concept of freedom in an ambience lacking the basic values of life, human love and the family.

"The Church's response"

In such a situation, many Catholic parents turn to the Church to take up the task of providing guidance and suggestions for educating their children . . . . The Catholic Bishops' Conference of Pakistan (CBCP) sees it is an obligation of it Family Life Commission to provide guidelines in support of parents in this delicate area of education. We wish to make families aware of the importance of education for love and for living one's sexuality properly. Conscious of the unique "experience of humanity" of the community of believers, we put forward pastoral guidelines, drawing on the wisdom which comes from the Word of God and the values which illuminate the teaching of the Church.

"Sexuality is not purely biological"

The human person is called to love as an incarnate spirit, that is, soul and body in the unity of the person. Human love hence embraces the body, and the body also expresses spiritual love. Therefore, sexuality is not something purely biological. Rather it concerns the intimate nucleus of the person. The use of sexuality as physical giving has its own truth and reaches its full meaning when it expresses the personal giving of man and woman even unto death.

"Chastity is not a repressive attitude"

In the light of the Redemption and how adolescents and young people are formed, the virtue of chastity is found within temperance, a cardinal virtue, elevated and enriched by grace in baptism. So chastity is not to be understood as a repressive attitude .... Chastity is ... that spiritual energy capable of defending love from the perils of selfishness and aggressiveness, and able to advance it towards its full realization.....

"Formation for Chastity"

To help couples become proficient and secure in using Natural Family Planning (NFP), the National Family Life Commission is providing competent programmes of instruction. ....

II. Called to True Love

Love is the fundamental and innate vocation of every human being. The whole meaning of true freedom, and self-control which follows from it, is thus directed towards self-giving in communion and friendship with God and others.

"Married Love"

When love is lived out in marriage, it includes and surpasses friendship. Love between a man and woman is achieved when they give themselves totally, each in turn according to their own masculinity and femininity, based on the marriage covenant, that communion of persons where God has willed that human life be conceived, grow and develop. To this married love, and to this love alone, belongs sexual giving, realized in a truly human way only if it is an integral part of love by which a man and a woman commit themselves totally to one another until death. ....

III. Natural Family Planning & Responsible Parenthood

"What is NFP?"

More than anything else, Natural Family Planning (NFP) is a unique approach to human sexuality. NFP is a way of achieving, avoiding or spacing birth that is both a science and an art. ....

"NFP is a holistic approach to sexuality"

NFP entails a holistic approach to sexuality and fosters a greater awareness of each other's bodies, the development of intimate communication, the amplification of ways of expressing affection, and growth in virtue. As husband and wife draw closer in mutual understanding and cultivate the discipline necessary for true freedom, they learn to better cope with the challenges of life and more deeply enjoy an authentic love. Conjugal love is not hindered, but elevated; enriched with spiritual values, couples and their families discover the gift of true peace and happiness. This is the testimony of those who have embraced the NFP approach to responsible parenthood.

"NFP enhances personality, communication and love"

The tradition of the Church has constantly taught that God does not command the impossible, but every commandment also carries with it a gift of grace which assists human freedom. NFP truly respects the value of personal freedom, it contributes to a true inner freedom, the ability to say "no" as well as "yes" to one's inclinations towards coitus. NFP means freedom from the unwanted side effects of oral contraception or devices, and embraces the positive dimension of sexual health which is positively enriching and enhances personality, communication and love.

Most Rev. Anthony Lobo
Bishop of Islamabad/Rawalpindi
Chairman,
Family Life Commission
Catholic Bishops Conference of Pakistan

Most Rev. Simeon Pereira
Archbishop of Karachi
President
Catholic Bishops Conference if Pakistan


News Briefs

Announcements

National NFP Week--July 21-27, 2002
National NFP Week was begun several years ago by the American Academy of NFP (now American Academy of FertilityCare^TM Professionals). This special celebration is intended to focus attention on Natural Family Planning in a variety of formats. Its goals include:

To educate Catholics of reproductive age on the methods of Natural Family Planning

To raise awareness of the positive message of Church teachings on human sexuality, conjugal love, responsible parenthood, marriage and family life

To provide parish leaders with materials and suggestions for educational activities

Please note that the dates for 2002 are July 21-27. The July dates were chosen to highlight the anniversary of the encyclical Humanae vitae (25) as well as make use of the feast of Saints Joachim and Ann (26). The oldest stories on the lives of Saints Joachim and Ann come from the apocryphal Gospel of James. According to that source, Ann and Joachim married at about twenty and at age 40 still had not been successful in having a child. So much did they want a child that they went out into the desert together to fast and pray. While Ann was praying an angel appeared to her and said, "Ann, God has heard your prayer. You will conceive and bear a child, and the fruit of your womb will be honored by all the world." Nine months later, Ann gave birth to Mary who was to be the Mother of God. Joachim and Anne, who no doubt had anxiety over their supposed infertility, became parents and later grandparents. One might even wonder how they reacted to their daughter's pregnancy! Clearly, their lives aptly take in the fullness of married life with all its joys and sufferings.

The American Academy has asked the DDP to take the lead in promoting NFP Week by designing and circulating appropriate resources. We will have a poster with an image and writing style designed to attract and appeal to young married couples. Materials will be made available in Spanish and English. We hope these new resources, coupled with materials highlighting local programs, will be helpful to you. Contact us for more information.

Endorsement--Applications
The following dioceses have applied for Endorsement according to the Standards: Diocese of Lansing, Rita Michaels, RN, Coordinator; Diocese of Salt Lake City, Veola Burchett, Coordinator; Archdiocese of Dubuque, Jerry and Diana Grebasch, Coordinators; Diocese of Savannah, Anne Knapp, Coordinator; Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, Susan Lepak, Coordinator; Diocese of Superior, Wayne and Ruth Raymond, Coordinators; Diocese of Salina, Katy Barbieri, RN, Coordinator and Diocese of Richmond, Michael Stone, Coordinator.

Approval--Award
The Diocese of Erie Teacher Training Program was awarded Approval (26 Oct. 2001) according to the Standards. Congratulations to Co-Coordinators Ed and Barbara Burkett!

Renewal of Endorsement
The Diocese of Corpus Christi and The Phoenix Natural Family Planning Center have successfully completed requirements for renewal of Endorsement according to the Standards.

Renewal of Approval
The FertilityCare^TM Center of Kansas City, Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph has successfully completed requirements for renewal of Approval of their teacher training program.

Congratulations to these programs!

God's Plan for Life, an organization designed to promote the preaching of the values of Humanae vitae from the pulpit holds clergy conferences semi-annually at the Prince of Peace Abbey in Oceanside, CA. The conference "team" consists of Brian Murphy, Chairman of the organization, Fr. Matthew Habiger, OSB and Fr. Daniel McCaffrey. Contact: God's Plan for Life, 19 Rosana Way, Coto de Caza, CA 92679; 949-635-0019; E-mail: bgmurphy@home.com; Website: www.Godsplanforlife.org.


Events

February 25-March 1, 2002, Northwest Family Services held a provider education and certification in the STM in Portland, OR. Contact: Rose Fuller, Executive Director, nfs@nwfs.org.

March 23, 2002, CANFP (California Association of NFP) will hold their annual meeting in Sacramento, CA. Workshops will be offered in both English and Spanish. Contact: Sheila St. John, CNFPP; info@canfp.

April 3-10, 2002, BOMA-USA will hold a teacher training session in Atlanta, GA. Contact: Sue Ek, boma-usa@msn.com.

April 15-19, 2002, The Pope Paul VI Institute is offering educational programs for priests at their Catholic Leadership Conference in Omaha. Contact: Pope Paul VI Institute, 402-390-6600.

May 1-5, 2002, BOMA-USA will offer teacher training in St. Cloud, MN. Contact: Sue Ek, boma-usa@msn.com.

June 1, 2002, the Diocese of Brooklyn will hold a Day of Recollection for Couples experiencing infertility. Featured speakers will include: an NFP only doctor, nurse, two witness couples and a
priest. There will be time for learning, for reflection, prayer and discussion. The day will conclude with the Sacrament of Reconciliation and a healing Mass. Contact: Florence Briceno, NFP coordinator: 718-229-8001, ext. 343; familylifefbriceno@prodigy.net.

June 20-22, 2002, "Integrating Faith and Science," a conference co-sponsored by the Marquette University College of Nursing, Institute for Natural Family Planning and the Diocesan Development Program for Natural Family Planning will be held at Marquette University. Contact: Dr. Richard Fehring, Marquette University College of Nursing; Richard.Fehring@Marquette.Edu.

June 23-26, 2002, Couple to Couple League will hold its convention in Shawnee, OK.
Contact: Couple to Couple League; ccli@ccli.org.

July 14-17, 2002, The American Academy of FertilityCare Professionals will hold their annual conference in Lake Tahoe. Contact:3680 Grant Drive, Suite O, Reno, NV 89509.

July 19-20, 2002, Family Honor will offer a "Conference on Christian Sexuality: An Examination of the Theology of the Body" at the Radisson Hotel in Charleston, SC.
Contact: Family Honor, 803-929-0858 or toll free at 877-208-1353.

September 14 & 15 and November 9 & 10 the Diocese of Brooklyn will sponsor a Couple to Couple League teachers training. Contact: Florence Briceno, Diocesan NFP Coordinator; 718-229-8001,ext. 343; familylifefbriceno@prodigy.net; or CCL Eastern Region Field Director John Du Mont, 513-471-2000; jdumont@ccli.org.


Resources

New NFP Video Produced by the Family Life/Respect Life Office of the Diocese of Brooklyn. A 23 minute video ideal for marriage preparation. Offers: a scientific introductory on NFP; teaching on Humane vitae; and testimonies from young married couples. Featured speakers include, Martha Garza, OB/GYN Reproductive Endocrinologist and Fr. Daniel McCaffrey. Contact: Family Life/Respect Life Office, Immaculate Conception Center, 7200 Douglaston Parkway, Douglaston, NY 11362-1997; 718-229-8001, ext. 343;familylifefbriceno@prodigy.net.

Taking Charge of Your Fertility, the newest edition of Toni Weschler's book is now available in bookstores. Fertility tracking software designed to supplement the book is available through her website at www.TCOYF.com.

Evenings for the Engaged, the newly revised and updated edition of William H. Sadlier's marriage preparation program is now available. This program highlights Matrimony as a vocation to love. Contact: William H. Sadlier, Inc.; 212-227-2120.

Natural Family Planning: Love Needs a Safe Place video has been produced by the Diocese
of Norwich, CT for its marriage preparation program. It provides basic NFP information and features witness couples along with a physician. A brochure packet, Natural Family Planning: For the Best in Family Planning, offers a comprehensive look at NFP and provides additional resource information. Contact: Catholic Charities, Office of Family Life, 331 Main Street, Norwich, CT 06360; 860-889-8346; E-mail: famser@snet.net

The National Association of Catholic Family Life Ministers (NACFLM) has developed a brochure on Natural Family Planning in collaboration with the Archdiocese of Boston Family Life Office and the New England Natural Family Planning Coordinators. Contact: NACFLM Executive Office, University of Dayton, 300 College Park, Dayton, OH 45469; 937-229-3324.

A New Language: Study Series on the Theology of the Body is available through Women Affirming Life. This series is designed to be a four season group study consisting of six weekly sessions, focusing on a new vision to understand marriage and human sexuality. The core text for all four seasons is Crossing the Threshold of Love: Contemporary Marriage in Light of John Paul II's Anthropology by Dr. Mary Shivanandan (Catholic University Press, 1999). Contact: Women Affirming Life, P.O. Box 35532, Brighton, MA 02135; 617-254-2277; E-mail: mail@
AffirmLife.com.

Email us at nfp@usccb.org
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