Published: January 08, 2009 08:53 pm      

Women's clinic holds pro-life service

DANVILLE — The Women’s Care Clinic will hold its annual service that promotes its pro-life ministry this weekend.

The service will include music, client testimony and a worship service.

WCC Executive Director Kim Padan said the main purpose of the service is to remember and pray for those affected by abortion.

"The purpose is to pray for women who’ve been affected by abortion and pray for the protection of children and to really bring people together to focus on our common goals," she said.

The clinic offers a support group for women who’ve had abortions. It also provides a variety of support services to women who are experiencing unexpected pregnancy and have chosen to have their babies.

Services offered by the clinic include free pregnancy testing, limited obstetrical ultrasound to confirm pregnancy, material assistance including maternity clothes, baby clothes and furniture, diapers and car seats. The center also provides support services such as adoption information and referrals, information on abortion risks, abstinence and sexual purity presentations, education on fetal development and pregnancy, spiritual support, post abortion support, and referrals for legal aid, medical care and other social services.

Second Church of Christ Senior Minister Drew Mentzer hopes the service this year has far-reaching affects.

"This year is not going to be just a prayer service,” he said. “What I’m hoping this is going to do is remind us that life is sacred and to remind us of the necessity of the protection of those who cannot protect themselves."

Mentzer’s talk at the service is titled after a Psalm: "We are Fearfully and Wonderfully Made."

Mentzer says the pro-life movement continues to grow into 2009.

"The pro-life movement is very strong," he said.

More and more people are taking a stand against abortion these days, he said, and acknowledging the unhealthy aspects of abortion.

Second Church of Christ supports the WCC in several ways, Mentzer said. The congregation donates to the Bridges program, which provides the center’s clients with baby clothes, strollers, toiletries, diapers and other necessities. The church also includes many foster parents, WCC volunteers and some who serve on the center’s board of directors.

"We’re not just trying to stop something," Mentzer said. "We’re trying to provide help and ministry for those who care for children."

There will be an opportunity to contribute financially. Women’s Care Clinic is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization. All financial contributions are tax deductible.

IF YOU GO

The Sanctity of Life Community Prayer Service will be at 6 p.m. Sunday at the Second Church of Christ, 3350 E. Voorhees St.