by Debra Niesen
I am writing this column on the eve of our national election, and am certain that I joined many of you in prayer to intercede for America, our leaders and the sanctity of life in our country.
Regardless of who won the election, our call to spread the “Gospel of Life” remains. We continue to pray:
• That God grants our leaders wisdom, courage and integrity to enact laws that honor and defend life at all stages and circumstances
• That every child in the womb is valued and defended
• That mothers in need have hope and support, and that every family is equipped to choose life
• That pro-life advocates be free from attacks and pregnancy support organizations be financially supported to provide compassionate and free services to those in need
• That abortion providers and advocates awaken to the truth that abortion is not health care and turn instead to the life that God desires for them
We must also continue to pray for the healing of all of those who have been harmed by abortion. Constant political ads and ardent candidate statements that abortion is good and necessary have likely affected women and men who suffer and deeply regret having walked the path of abortion either by their own will or as a result of being coerced or misled into thinking that abortion would solve a problem.
Do you have abortion in your past? Are you carrying the weight of a choice made out of fear or pressure? Do you know someone who has been hurt by abortion?
I encourage you to connect with our Project Rachel (for women) and Project Joseph (for men) abortion healing ministries.
I think of my friend who, after 40 years of privately carrying this deep wound, took a chance and reached out to join a weekend retreat and had a life- altering experience. Afterwards she wrote to me, “After 40 years in the desert, I am finally free of my shame.”
I’m inspired by another friend who, after mustering much courage, registered for a retreat and faced her abortion wounds. God’s merciful love helped her to finally see herself as Our Lord sees her — as his precious and beautiful daughter, worthy of his love and forgiveness. Now, his grace flows freely through her to help other scared women facing unplanned pregnancies.
Our Project Rachel and Joseph ministries offer hope and healing in a nonjudgmental and confidential atmosphere. A healing program can be experienced in English or Spanish individually, in group settings or through one-day or weekend retreats. All services are free, confidential and open to anyone regardless of faith background. Call or text (913) 621-2199, (913) 387-8161 or (913) 249-8068 (for Spanish) or visit the website at: projectrachelkc. com.
Our Lady of Czestochowa, pray for us.
