A Sign of Hope

“Therefore let every soul trust n the Passion of the Lord, and place its hope in His mercy. God will not deny His mercy to anyone ( Diary 72)

The initial retreat day of the Entering Canaan post abortion ministry is called, “A Day of Prayer & Healing” and is the first contact in a progression of events towards healing . Our goal for this one day is to bring those who come to us shattered, shameful, sorrowful and often despairing from a past abortion, to the knowledge that there is hope of healing. In fact, it is Gods desire that they are healed and have joy in their lives again. If the people who participate in this first day leave with that hope in their hearts, the day was successful.

There are many dynamics to post abortion healing. Each person is unique and we strive to honor that dignity in each of them. Some may reach healing quickly, while others have suffered many wounds and may take longer to heal. We trust in God’s goodness and His love for each person and know He is working and wants to heal each one to their core.

A common experience of many of the people who come to us is a feeling of judgment by others. This judgment often confirms for them what they already feel, unforgiveable, and it leaves them with no hope of healing and a fear to come forward because they do not believe Mercy is available to them.  Many have kept their abortions hidden, living with the fear of being found out.

The gospels call us all to be careful of judging others. Whether it is judging those who have had abortions or those who may condemn them. Jesus calls us to see we are all in need of His Mercy and so this same mercy should be shown to others.

May all of us reflect the mercy of Christ in the world, and when we feel judged or condemned, may we offer a prayer for the person instead of getting angry. May we each be a sign of Christ’s hope in the world knowing He is showing us the same mercy we are called to show others.

 

 

To protect creation, to protect every man and every woman, to look upon them with tenderness and love, is to open up a horizon of hope; it is to let a shaft of light break through the heavy clouds; it is to bring the warmth of hope!” Pope Francis