Report
Diocesan Development Program for Natural Family Planning Profile 1997 Summary
In November of 1997, 187 Profile questionnaires were mailed to the dioceses. Ninety-three or 49% completed and returned questionnaires. Data provided indicate that trends have remained constant with NFP programs around the nation.
NFP efforts in dioceses, when viewed as a whole, remain varied and uneven. Some dioceses have robust NFP programs. Some have made tremendous strides in improving programs by meeting the National Standards of the NCCB. A few dioceses have experienced a reduction in programs either through teacher loss, budget cuts, and/or diocesan restructuring. Using diocesan funding as indicative of commitment, it can be said that NFP is only marginally supported.
Dioceses which have demonstrated a commendable long-term commitment to NFP ministry through funding, staffing, and program services include: Cleveland, OH; Harrisburg, PA; La Crosse, WI; Phoenix, AZ; St. Cloud, MN; and Springfield, IL. These dioceses can serve as models or consulted by dioceses with less developed programs. Check the National Diocesan NFP Coordinators’ Directory or contact the DDP/NFP at the NCCB for further information.