One by one the candles were lit. Sixteen of them, each one representing a life. This was a memorial service for unborn children. One by one, the mothers spoke after they lit the candles. At times they shared what they would say to their children represented by the candles, at other times they spoke to the supportive audience gathered in the small sanctuary about themselves. This service was for the mothers; it was a part of Life Centers’ GRACE program.
GRACE is Life Centers’ post-abortion ministry. The acronym of GRACE stands for God’s Real Acceptance, Compassion, and Encouragement. It is a post-abortion recovery and support group for those who have experienced the hurt of an abortion. Life Centers walks participants through a confidential journey of recovery in an intimate, supportive group with others who are moving toward freedom and healing. This service is the conclusion of weeks of Bible study and a weekend retreat.
As the women at the service share their stories, two things stand out. One is the varying journeys these women have been on and the burdens they carried on those journeys. A young lady tells of her abortion this past December and how it was a moment of weakness in her faith. Another woman spoke of her abortion over 40 years ago and the pain over the years that drove her to addiction and a suicide attempt. The second thing that stood out at this service, was the freedom they now had in God’s forgiveness and support they have found at Life Centers. As these women share God’s love, compassion and grace with each other, the bonds of friendship are deep and lasting. GRACE is a place where joy and hope are restored.
If you or someone you know has been wounded by abortion, you can find out more about GRACE by visiting the GRACE page or by contacting the director of GRACE, Machelle Montgomery.