“How Will My Church Family Respond?” - This is a very top-of-mind questions for people in unplanned pregnancies in the faith community.
Our abortion-vulnerable patients here at Thrive Medical Clinic (TMC) are often very nervous to tell their families and church friends about their unplanned pregnancy. The sad reality is that many women in the American Church get secret abortions for fear of judgment and an assumed lack of support and acceptance of them and their baby. We know the local Church is their biggest support system, so we encourage them to tell you about their pregnancy, and they are usually so surprised and relieved by how well you respond! When they know with confidence that they will be embraced and lovingly supported, they are much more likely to tell you they’re pregnant and choose life for their baby!
Proactive tips to help her know you’ll accept and support her:
Vocalize your unconditional love beforehand. Tell your close friends and family that if they were ever to face an unplanned pregnancy, you would unconditionally love and support them, and would celebrate their child’s life. These simple words can dispel their fear, and give them courage to reach out to you if they do become pregnant.
Help her know she’s not alone. Fear of judgment and lack of financial resources may cause her to believe she’ll be completely alone if she chooses to parent. Whether you’re her partner, family, or church, you can help alleviate this crushing assumption by vocalizing your love and tangible support.
Affirm them as parents and their baby as a blessing. Hearing “you are going to be an amazing mother/ father” when they expect to hear disapproval can have a profound impact.
Contact us at Thrive Medical Clinic if you’re interested in learning more about how you can create an active culture of grace and truth in your church or family around the topic of unplanned pregnancies.
Contact our Executive Director Avery McCutcheon at Avery@thrivemedicalclinic.org or call 231-929-3488.