Our tagline, “Choose Compassion” is so much more than a tagline. It is something we set out to do every single day for every single person that walks through our doors. We want people to want to come back again and again. We want them to feel comfortable talking to us, knowing we will be unbiased listeners, not placing judgment. So many people just need someone to listen, show genuine concern, and offer support and solutions.

At times, the stories we hear can be difficult and full of sorrow. Many times, it’s hard to know the right thing to say, but if we lean on the Lord and rely on Him to speak through us, often times the right words come pouring out; words offering hope.

Recently, a young lady and her boyfriend visited one of our centers. Jessica* had been seen twice this year by Karen* who happened to be working when the couple came in. Karen took her back to a counseling room and determined she was there for a pregnancy test. The test was negative.

But a pregnancy test wasn’t the only thing Jessica came in for that day. Tearfully, she said to Karen, “I came here for you to pray with me.” Somewhat shocked, as that isn’t something we hear very often, Karen asked Jessica if this was something her boyfriend should be a part of, or if she would like to be prayed for alone. Stating her boyfriend should be involved, Matt* came back to the counseling room.

When Karen asked the couple what they needed prayer for, Jessica replied, “Our life together and for our relationship.” The couple was holding hands, crying as Karen prayed for them. Karen encouraged them to move toward God and to put Him first in their relationship, forsaking all things that are interfering with a relationship with their Lord and Savior.

When their time together came to a close, they left the counseling room and Karen led them down the hallway toward the lobby. While they were walking, Karen heard Matt say to Jessica, “I feel so much better.”

God is moving in this young couple’s lives. They sought prayer and guidance and knew where to go.

This is such a powerful example of what Life Centers is. A place of compassion, hope, and support.

Are you looking for a way to show support and offer hope to members of your community? If you are interested in volunteering at one of our centers, please email Tammy Johnson at tjohnson@lifecenters.com.

*Names have been changed