Retreat can lead to healing after an abortion

By Kolette Kae  
 
Do you know someone who has had an abortion and is suffering emotionally and/or spiritually? Are you struggling with how to help them find healing? Rachel’s Vineyard is a safe place to renew, rebuild, and redeem hearts broken by abortion. The ministry offers hope and healing to thousands of post-abortive women and the men affected each year. 
 
Rachel's Vineyard Ministry team members will be giving a seminar in the St. Francis de Sales gym on Saturday, March 9th from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. The first hour will teach how to lovingly respond to someone who is suffering in the aftermath of an abortion. The ministry will also provide an overview of the Rachel’s Vineyard Ministry and weekend healing retreats. The second hour will be dedicated to answering questions. 
 
If you would like to attend the seminar, please RSVP by March 4th and submit any questions for the seminar by emailing [email protected] or calling the St. Francis de Sales parish office at (520) 885-5908. 
 

What is Walking with Moms in Need? 

Walking with Moms in Need is a national program sponsored by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB).   
 
Dr. Ana Sanguineti is the Diocese of Tucson's Pro-Life spokesperson working to implement the ministry throughout the Tucson diocese, ensuring that Walking with Moms in Need is carried out at the parish level. 
 
“This program is so timely and strongly supported by Bishop Edward Weisenburger,” she said.  The first goal is to give alternatives to women who might otherwise seek an abortion. And secondly, to provide healing for women suffering in the aftermath of an abortion. 
 
“With a generous heart, parishioners are invited to accompany expectant moms facing challenging pregnancies, or young parenting moms experiencing difficulties, whether emotional, financial or spiritual,” Dr. Sanguineti said. 
 
Saint Francis de Sales began its parish ministry of Walking with Moms in Need in June 2023.   
 
The Walking with Moms in Need parish action guide collected data from abortion providers. It revealed that 75% who chose abortion were low income, 60% were in their 20’s, while 86% were unmarried. The women came from all cultures and backgrounds, of those 39% were white, 28% were black, 25% were Hispanic, and 6% were Asian or a Pacific Islander. The report also showed that many of the women who turned to abortion reported a religious affiliation, including 24% who identified themselves as Catholic. 
 
 
For more information visit https://www.walkingwithmoms.com/.