Office for Human Life

Who We Are & How We Serve

The Office for Human Life exists to witness to the sacred gift of life and to form missionary disciples who live out a consistent ethic of life—from conception to natural death. Rooted in the truth that every person bears the image of God (cf. Gen 1:27), we accompany parishes, schools, and families in building a culture that respects, protects, loves, and serves life in all its stages.

"In the name of God: respect, protect, love and serve life, every human life! Only in this direction will you find justice, development, true freedom, peace and happiness!" ~Pope. St. John Paul II, Evangelium Vitae, no.5

Our ministry is shaped by the four pillars of the USCCB's Pastoral Plan for Pro-Life Activities:

• Prayer – grounding all our efforts in worship and intercession.

• Education – forming minds and hearts with the fullness of Catholic teaching.

• Advocacy – working for laws and policies that defend human dignity.

• Pastoral Care – walking with individuals and families in moments of need.

Together, these pillars guide how we serve across Northeast Ohio, uniting diverse life issues into a single mission: to proclaim and embody the Gospel of Life.

Our Services:

• Consultation & Collaboration – with parishes, schools, youth ministries, and all groups committed to promoting life and dignity.

• Resource Hub – providing information on Catholic Social Teaching and its affirmation of a robust consistent ethic of life.

• Training & Formation – offering training, education, continuing education, and catechetical formation opportunities.

• Referral & Support – connecting individuals and communities with ministries, direct services, networking opportunities, and program planning/development.

• Ministerial Assistance – serving as a point of support for lay and clerical faithful throughout the diocese.

Learn more about our vision and mission in Director Tony Dipre’s statement, available below:

Director's Statement: OHL