Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

The Diocese of Springfield in Illinois is offering free one-on-one instruction in the Marquette Method of Natural Family Planning (NFP) to couples and single women. This initiative aims to have instructors available throughout the diocese, although online sessions are also an option.

Currently, two instructors are completing their Marquette certification and providing complimentary instruction both virtually and in person. Participants receive a one-hour session on the Marquette Method, followed by a 30-minute follow-up after a month of charting. Continued support for up to six months is available at no cost.

Dr. Stephanie Kafie explains that NFP helps identify fertile days based on natural fertility signs like cervical mucus and basal body temperature. The Marquette Method specifically uses a fertility monitor to detect hormonal changes through urine tests.

Kate Pruemer, with extensive experience teaching the Creighton Model FertilityCare System, notes that NFP benefits single women as well by enhancing understanding of reproductive health. Anne Marie Williams highlights that young girls can use cycle charting for better awareness of their bodies.

Dr. Nicole Tenegra emphasizes that NFP is accessible to anyone regardless of religious beliefs, noting its scientific basis without synthetic hormones. Pruemer refutes myths about NFP's effectiveness, stating modern methods are nearly 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.

Both Tenegra and Pruemer discuss Church teachings on contraception, emphasizing NFP's alignment with these principles by allowing couples to decide naturally when they are fertile or infertile.

For more information or questions about NFP services in the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois, contact Gracie Ortiz at (217) 321-1124 or [email protected].