The Archbishop of the Catholic Church, Peter Loy Chong, has underscored the necessity of treating teenage pregnancies with compassion and support to safeguard both mother and child. In an interview responding to a growing concern regarding teenage pregnancy, particularly after a recent incident involving a newborn left in a washroom at a tertiary institution in Lautoka, the Archbishop highlighted the church’s approach which focuses on love, support, and the sanctity of life.
Archbishop Loy Chong emphasized that the church advocates for practical support systems that encompass counseling, healthcare, and financial assistance for young mothers. He reminded the public that despite the circumstances surrounding an unplanned pregnancy, the young mother deserves to feel valued and supported. This includes exploring options such as adoption and engaging the father in the process, thus ensuring a more holistic approach to the issue.
This renewed focus on teenage-pregnancy-related support comes amidst urgent calls from various religious and community leaders, including the Methodist Church, to recognize the collective responsibility in addressing the rising rates of teenage pregnancies. They stress that no single entity should be blamed, as societal stigma and lack of awareness about available resources significantly contribute to the distress faced by young individuals.
The derelict situation of the abandoned newborn has ignited dialogues concerning the urgent need for a community response to help young people facing unexpected pregnancies. Medical Services Pacific has reported similar incidents where young women feel isolated and resort to desperate measures due to lack of support.
Community leaders, including Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Sashi Kiran, echo these sentiments, urging families and institutions to confront the stigma surrounding unplanned pregnancies and to provide young mothers with the necessary support to navigate their circumstances. The hope is that an increase in awareness and compassion can prevent similar tragedies, fostering a more nurturing environment for both mothers and their children.
Overall, there is a sense of optimism that with continued efforts and a collective approach, the community can create a supportive framework that assists young mothers, ensuring that they do not feel alone in their challenges.
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