WHO WE ARE
Orthodox Christians for Life – Indianapolis is the first Indiana chapter of the mother organization Orthodox Christians for Life (OCLife) based in New York, which is a non-profit religious educational Pro-Life organization consisting of members primarily from the Eastern Orthodox Church, recognized as a fourth major faith in the United States. OCLife was founded in early 1986 by Rev Edward Pehanich an Orthodox priest of the American Carpatho-Russian jurisdiction, John Protopapas, now a Deacon of the Orthodox Church in America – and Matushka Valerie Protopapas, also a member of the Orthodox Church in America and a prolific writer on sanctity of life issues.
OCLife functions in cooperation with the hierarchy, clergy, and laity of the Orthodox Church regardless of jurisdiction or geographical location; and supports the doctrines and canons of the Church. The organization consists of over 800 members (including seven chapters) in the United States, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Australia as of February 1998. It is also open to interested non-Orthodox Christians on an affiliate basis.
Orthodox Christians for Life is primarily a religious-educational organization and does not organize marches, demonstrations, or sit-ins; however, we do participate in such Pro-Life events as a group, or as individuals, providing they are peaceful and do not conflict with Church doctrine. We condemn all forms of violence in any effort to resolve sanctity of human life issues.
OUR VISION
Mission Statement
OCLife Indianapolis exists to present and support the position of the Orthodox Church on matters of sanctity of innocent human life to all peoples through intercession, education and material assistance.
Objectives
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To initiate corporate prayer in all Orthodox parishes in Indiana, regardless of jurisdiction, through liturgical prayer services, silent prayer vigils at abortion facilities and supporting major Pro-Life prayer events such as March for Life and 40 Days for Life.
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To educate Orthodox and Non-Orthodox about the sanctity of all innocent human life, regardless of age or condition of health and traditional Christian values such as the sanctity of marriage and the holiness of chastity (both in and out of marriage).
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To work in a cooperative spirit with all Pro-Life organizations, regardless of religious affiliation, providing they espouse a complimentary sanctity of life ethic. In this area we serve as a unique witness to the teachings of the Early Christian Church.
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To support women in crisis pregnancy through referrals to and fund raising for crisis pregnancy centers.
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To help victims of abortion find healing, forgiveness and restoration through the Orthodox Church.
Glory be to God!May He great;y Bless your work!I will be with you in spirit and prayer!
Thank you! God bless you!