5 Ways Churches Can Reduce the Number of Abortions
More than likely, abortion has touched your congregation in some way, and maybe in ways that you aren’t even aware of. We want you to know that you are not alone. Research shows that nearly half of the women who have had an abortion were regularly attending church at the time. We believe the way we speak about life within the church can play a powerful role in reducing abortions in our communities. Here are five compassionate and grace-filled ways your church can begin to make a difference.
1. Talk About It With Compassion and Clarity
Some pastors hesitate to speak about abortion for fear of offending or triggering shame. But saying nothing may feel like abandonment to someone struggling with an unintended pregnancy or a history of abortion. Instead, you can speak honestly and gently from the pulpit. Acknowledge that these situations are not rare, and make sure your church family knows that you are prepared to respond and help anyone who is facing an unexpected pregnancy.
Let them know:
They are not alone.
They are loved.
Your church is a safe place for them to process their situation and seek support.
2. Create a Shame-Free Culture for Unexpected Pregnancy
Some women choose abortion because they’re afraid of being shamed or judged, not just by their families, but by their church. They believe an unexpected pregnancy could destroy their identity as a “good Christian.” You can counteract this mindset with grace-filled messaging like:
You are welcome here, just as you are.
Pregnancy is not inherently a sin. Every new life is a gift from God.
You are loved and valued.
We’re here to walk with you every step of the way.
These messages can help your church work towards a culture that promotes compassion and grace over judgement, gossip, and fear.
3. Support Her With Practical Help
Your church can be viewed as a trusted source for practical resources for women who are unexpectedly pregnant. Become familiar with organizations in your community that can provide support, like:
The Hope Center (that’s us!), or your local pregnancy center
Housing and job referrals
Mentorship programs
Benevolence/financial support
Childcare
Baby supplies
Post-abortion care
Start by educating your church family about The Hope Center and consider reaching out to other organizations that can offer some of these services. Members of our staff would be happy to sit down with your leadership or share with your church family on a Sunday morning.
4. include men in the conversation
Unexpected pregnancies and abortions don’t only affect women. Many women have shared with us how the opinion of the baby’s father is heavily influencing their decision. Men also need the support of the church as they process the news of pregnancy with their partner.
Churches can:
Host men’s groups that empower men in their roles as partners and fathers
Provide opportunities for men to discuss and navigate complex emotions
Encourage responsibility and integrity within their relationships and life choices
5. Teach Teens With Hope instead of Shame
Abstinence-only messaging sometimes resorts to fear and shame to scare teens out of having sex. But, this can actually make teens and young adults more likely to choose abortion, in an attempt to cover up their shame around sex or pregnancy.
Instead, you can teach the teens in your church:
God’s design for sex and the goodness and joy of sex within His design
Where to find appropriate education about their bodies, sexuality, and fertility
That having questions about these subjects is not shameful or embarrassing
That their choices and struggles don’t define their worth or change God’s love for them
Give teens tools to understand and honor their bodies. Education and open communication can help them see the church as a place they can trust to compassionately help them navigate their sexuality.
It Starts With Love
A woman doesn’t need to be told abortion is wrong. Deep down, most already believe it is. What she needs is someone to support her and remind her she is not alone.
You can’t change the whole world overnight. But you can help save one life (and possibly more) by creating a culture within your church of understanding, grace, and compassion.
If you are a church leader in Boone, NC or surrounding areas and want to learn more about communicating with your church family about abortion, give us a call at (828) 265-4357 or email tcampbell@choosehope.org. Let’s work together to change the trajectory of abortion within the church.