In a culture that often measures human worth by independence or productivity, the Catholic vision of healthcare calls us to something deeper. Rooted in the belief that every person is created in the image of God, it affirms the dignity of human life at every stage, from conception to natural death.
Healthcare professionals regularly face complex moral and medical decisions, often in settings that do not share this understanding of the human person.
These Catholic resources offer, ethical guidance, and pastoral support to help healthcare workers practice with clarity, compassion, and confidence—honoring life to the very last breath.
The Catholic vision of medicine calls us to see every person as created in the image of God and deserving of compassionate care.
— Aimée Godfrey, Director of Catholic Charities
Diocese of Lansing
Department of the Human Person and Life
The Department of the Human Person and Life serves the Church’s mission to uphold the dignity of every human person. Our work includes support and guidance related to marriage, family life, and respect for human life at every stage.
We are happy to assist with questions or concerns related to these areas. If we are unable to answer a question directly, we will help connect you with someone who can.
Our team provides guidance on bioethical questions, pastoral resources, and practical support, including:
- Bioethics consultation and education
- Healing ministries and accompaniment for child loss, infertility, divorce, and more
- Pregnancy loss support, including comfort kits, delivery kits, caskets, and burial information
- Training for Natural Family Planning (NFP) instructors
- Marriage preparation and enrichment
- Counseling and support groups at Catholic Charities
Contact Information Website:
Jenny Ingles
Email: jingles@dioceseoflansing.org
Phone: 517-342-2587
Aimée Godfrey
Email: agodfrey@dioceseoflansing.org
Phone: 517-930-8517
Emma Rose Fisher
Email:erfisher@dioceseoflansing.org
Phone: 517-898-6523
The National Catholic Bioethics Center
The National Catholic Bioethics Center provides trusted Catholic guidance on complex bioethical issues.
24/7 access to on-call bioethicists
Phone: 215-877-2660
Online consultation: www.ncbcenter.org/consultation-form
Additional resources and educational materials on a wide range of bioethics topics are available on their website.
Project Rachel
Project Rachel is a compassionate and confidential ministry offering healing and hope to women who have experienced abortion.
Based at Catholic Charities Washtenaw County
Website: www.ccwcwashtenaw.org/pastoral-care/project-rachel/
Email: projectrachel@ccwcwashtenaw.org
Michigan Catholic Conference
The Michigan Catholic Conference (MCC) serves as the official public policy voice of the Catholic Church in Michigan. In addition to administering health benefits for diocesan employees, MCC actively engages with state legislators and the governor to advocate for policies that uphold Catholic teaching and the dignity of human life.
MCC also provides educational resources to help parishes and individuals better understand important public policy issues, including assisted suicide.
Advocacy updates and public policy resources: www.micatholic.org/advocacy
Assisted suicide educational resources: www.micatholic.org/advocacy/news-room/focus/2024/i-am-with-you-always/assisted-suicide-resources/
Counseling Resources
Individuals who are struggling with serious medical issues—and who may be contemplating assisted suicide—can be helped through counseling.
Catholic Charities agencies in the diocese can assist with providing counseling and support. Information on how to contact them can be found on the diocesan website. www.dioceseoflansing.org/catholic-charities