Director of Public Policy designated as pro-life ministry liaison

Effective immediately, Director of Public Policy Suzanne Lafreniere’s title will be updated to include pro-life ministry liaison. This title change better reflects the work Suzanne is doing on behalf of the Diocese of Portland to advocate at the local, state and national level on pro-life issues.

The Office of Public Policy works to educate the public and lawmakers on Catholic social teaching, seeking to promote the common good. The office provides Catholic moral leadership and guidance in areas including education, marriage, healthcare, the protection of human life, poverty, criminal justice, and the environment.

As pro-life ministry liaison, Suzanne will continue to work with pro-life organizations in Maine including Maine Right to Life, the Knights of Columbus and pregnancy support centers. She currently assists in coordinating the diocese’s parish-based ministry, Walking with Moms in Need. This program is an opportunity for Catholic parishes and communities to "walk in the shoes" of local pregnant and parenting women in need, accompanying them in friendship and helping to connect moms with local resources. These resources are outlined at www.walkingwithmoms.com.

Suzanne joined the diocese nearly 15 years ago and has served in a number of public policy capacities. Prior to joining the chancery, Suzanne was an attorney in private practice. Suzanne is a graduate of Loyola University Maryland and the University of Maine Law School. She served as a legal intern for the U.S. Department of Justice.