Pro-LifeThe pro-life ministry was birthed through 2 women, each with different burdens. Rhodie Shreve initiated a pro-life educational/political arm in the early 90's that began with some video presentations to the church by women who had abortions and the effects of that on their lives. She organized various petition drives at the church to limit legislation that would have taken away states rights in limiting some aspects of the abortion process. Jay Meena was a mentor to her and helped in setting up the ministry and giving direction for the purpose and values.In 1994, Margi Moriarty was led to begin the first women's ministry small group centered on pro-life concerns. This group was called Women For Life. Her initial call primarily was to the abortion clinics and sidewalk counseling. This group of about 20-25 women was very active in assisting women who were in a crisis pregnancy by providing practical, hands-on care and meeting material needs. Barb and Phil Huneke shared their home and hosted meetings on a regular basis. Many women came through this group with a burden to help care for women and children. Rhodie and Margi joined efforts and Women For Life became the pro-life ministry at Vineyard. In 1995, Rhodie initiated the post-abortion counseling ministry called Daughters of Rachel. This was led by Debbie Neybert who developed materials and led groups of women through the healing process. We continue to serve women who are suffering the after affects of an abortion through the HEART group. We now offer this healing group several times a year. Many women have attended the group and been healed of their past abortion pain and are now serving in the Pro-Life ministry. The group is currently lead by Deanie Dodge and Tricia Ross. In 1997, Jeff and Adrianne Cannell led a 4-week group for raising awareness at Joshua House concerning these issues. They were instrumental in planning the first pro-life presentation at Joshua House on Sanctity of Life Sunday. As the ministry grew and developed, it expanded it's scope of care to include everything from fundraising for Pregnancy Decision Health Center in the Walk for Life, taking and giving away donations of material goods to women in crisis pregnancies, mentoring young mothers through a group called Motherhheart which was first led by Rosanne Hickman, and sidewalk counseling at the abortion clinics on Saturday mornings. Of course, they did literally save some lives. There are children walking around today that would not be here except for the early efforts of this ministry. IN 1999, Rhodie stepped out of leadership in this ministry and Margi and her husband John were called to church plant in _____. After being a wonderful blessing to many, Margi handed the ministry over to Diane Bauman who is now the current director. Diane was an active and key member from the beginning of the pro-life ministry and has been personally and passionately involved in helping women for a long time. Diane has continued to develop the ministry by forming relationships with Obstetrics clinics, schools and government organizations who connect with women in crisis pregnancies. In 2005 the Pro-Life ministry began working with the Mt Carmel Health system network of Obstetrics clinics. We have connected many women to the church who would have been without many resources the Pro-Life ministry provides. In 2006 the Pro-Life ministry serves over 150 women in crisis pregnancies, gave away over 100 packages of diapers, numerous cribs, bassinets, baby clothing and blankets. Many of these women were connected to a Motherheart Mentor, where they were provided with not only material resources, but a relationship with a woman who helped them find connection with the church and Jesus. In 2007, we have over 50 Motherheart mentors serving not only those in our congregation, but many women in the community. God has been faithful to provide leadership and to keep this important value of the sanctity of life a central focus for our church. |