Have you ever wondered why so many Churches are silent about abortion?
Having asked numerous Church/conference leaders to host pro life events/speakers over the last three years, the response received is often underwhelming and usually one of excuses. The reason for this avoidance is actually admirable and because they are kind hearted - they do not want to add further pain or discomfort to women and men (in their congregations) who may have been affected directly or indirectly by abortion. Statistically, that would be one woman in every three, sitting in their pews each week. But does this silence actually contribute to the culture of abortion we have in Australia?
For a week in September (23rd-30th), Church leaders have a wonderful opportunity to meet two Christian ladies from Operation Outcry (U.S), who will be available to share their powerful abortion and healing testimonies. They will also discuss why it is imperative for Churches to be prepared to tackle the ugly problem of abortion, for the sake of people in their congregations and in their wider communities. There will also be information on hand, for support that is available in Australia for women pre or post abortion.
CHURCH LEADERS FORUM ON ABORTION - AN OVERVIEW.
- Out of the 'too hard basket' and onto the discussion table - These relaxed informal forums are a unique opportunity to hear from other Christians on how the Church has helped (or could have helped) them in the prevention or recovery from abortion.
Speakers:
Kay Painter is the Idaho state leader of Operation Outcry, an organisation of men and women sharing their stories about their abortion experiences. Kay was told that her abortion "would be a quick fix that she would never have to think about again". After years of devastation, self hatred and two attempts at suicide, Kay has found healing. She now counsels others who struggle with their pasts, as she did.
Julie Thomas is an international pro life missionary with the Justice Foundation, San Antino, Texas. She is the Georgia State Leader of Operation Outcry and works with legislators ,on local and federal levels, to bring about changes to abortion legislation. Julie also volunteers at a local pregnancy support centre, where she facilitates a post abortion Bible study. Courageously she shares her own testimony of the pain that abortion once inflicted upon her. She tells of her experience of sitting in a Church for some 20 years, suffering pain from abortion.
The forum is likely to include some discussion and information about any of the following:
- Why women have abortions.
- Abortion and men.
- Statistics on abortion.
- The impact of abortion on individuals, couples, families and communities.
- The needs of post abortive women/men.
- Resources available, including programs for women in need. What about the men?
- How is all of this relevant to my Church?
- A Biblical perspective on abortion.
- Does it belong in the 'too hard' basket?
- The Churches role in the prevention of abortion.
If you are a Church leader who is passionate about abortion and already addressing this problem, then your imput would be invaluable - you might also learn something 'extra' to assist you.
With one in three women having abortions in Australia, burying our heads in the sand is no longer an option.
Church leader forums will be held:
* Warragul (Victoria) - Friday, Sep 23, 10am - 12pm. Warragul Church of Christ, 155 Bowen Street, Warragul - Light lunch provided. RSVP: Kirsten: 0402 220 445
* Bendigo - Friday, Sep 23, 7:30pm - 9:00pm. Abundant Life Christian Fellowship, 113-123 Mackenzie St West, Golden Square.
* Mildura - Sunday, Sep 25, 1:30 pm. River Edge Church, River Road, Merbein. Coffee and cake provided.
For more information, please contact Sonja: sonja@lifenetwork.org.au or 0428 313 931
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