By Denis Brosnan
Herald Staff Writer
(From the issue of 6/26/03)

Healing begins with forgiveness.

That notion is being received by many in the Arlington Diocese. In only six months, Project Rachel, a post-abortion ministry program of the Catholic Church, has seen its clientele double that of last year.

In the month of June alone, Project Rachel has helped three times as many people compared to last June. The program also counseled nine men in the first six months — a record high.

In addition, Gabriel Project, a program designed to offer help to women who experience a crisis pregnancy, has seen its membership double that of last year.

Project Rachel’s main goal is to help men and women heal their spiritual and emotional wounds caused by an abortion, according to Gerri Laird, director of Project Rachel and Gabriel Project in Arlington. "The idea of reconciliation is much more accepted these days. Instead of judging these people, we want to help them with the healing process," she said.

According to Laird, the success of Project Rachel and Gabriel Project can be attributed to advertisements seen in the HERALD, as well as priestly support throughout the diocese.

"Priests are not opposed to this anymore. They understand that we are not condoning abortion. We simply want to help these people deal with this terrible tragedy," Lair said.

Lair feels that the Church’s view on abortion has shifted over the years from condemnation to forgiveness and hope. "There has been a change in attitude in the way the Church deals with abortion. I think that has encouraged many people to come forward and seek out help," she said.

Project Rachel was founded in 1984 and is located in 140 dioceses across the country, as well as many diocese around the world.

The Gabriel Project was formed in 1991 and seeks to prevent women from having an abortion due to unwanted pregnancies or crises. It provides women with amenities such as medical transportation, food and clothing.

Lair said she hopes more people seek out help in the future. "Hopefully we will see this trend continue, and get the word out that help is available for those who want it."