The following letter involves fictional characters and circumstances. It is written to encourage, that is, to bolster the courage of those tempted by abortion—including their pastors. (PTS)

 __________________________

Dear Karin:

God’s grace and peace to you and yours. I trust that you are remaining in the Church’s faith, enjoying your friends, and studying hard and learning much.

One of your many close friends from high-school days told me about your current difficult situation and struggle. She is concerned about you and your wellbeing. Immediately after hearing from her, I sat down to write this letter to you. (As you will see, I not only intend to mail it, but will also email it to you.)

We have known each other for over 10 years. You were in third or fourth grade when my family and I moved to your town after our bishop appointed me to pastor your church. A few years passed. You entered the Confirmation class and, after meeting its challenges, joined the church. As I recall, this happened on an Easter Sunday.

That morning, responding to the church’s question, “Do you confess Jesus Christ as your Savior, put your whole trust in his grace, and promise to serve him as your Lord, in union with the church which Christ has opened to people of all ages, nations, and races?,” you and your Confirmation classmates declared, “I do.”

To the question, “According to the grace given to you, will you remain faithful members of Christ’s holy church and serve as Christ’s representatives in the world?,” all of you promised, “I will.”

The congregation joyfully celebrated with you that day. With your faith confirmed by the church, you seemed so thankful and proud to be a brand, new member of Christ’s Church.

Unlike some of your classmates, you faithfully continued to attend Sunday School class and Worship Service on Sunday mornings, and Youth Group on Sunday evenings. You were eager to grow in Christ and His Church.

Your high-school graduation came and went with much excitement. Before we knew it, you had enrolled at the university and moved into an on-campus dormitory. I am sure that getting acquainted with other students played a major role in your earliest college experience. That, of course, must have included dating.

Now, several months later, you find yourself pregnant. Karin, know that I, as a brother in Christ, love you; and that I love the little one you carry.

I am sure you are embarrassed, even ashamed, perhaps anguished, by this development. I am certain that you are crushed by the thought of this ending your college experience. I am guessing that you have well-intentioned friends who are suggesting that you “take care of the pregnancy and everything will be alright,” so that you can maintain your school life.

Karin, please, please, please take a breath and pray that God would give you some peace.  Then consider this advice:

First, do not rush to an abortion clinic.

Second, do not buy and take an abortion pill.

Third, go to church. Better yet, attend a church that serves Holy Communion every service.  In that Communion, you encounter the presence of Christ, who will give you peace and strength. Ask Him to help you.

Fourth, find a pro-life group on campus. Share with one or two of its members your circumstance and ask them how they might help you.

Fifth, know that God’s will is tied to God’s providence. In other words, whatever it is our Lord asks of us, He provides the wisdom, strength, and all else that is needed for us to be obedient. (Also included are an increase in faith (or trust) in God, supportive friends, resources, understanding, patience, perseverance, forgiveness, and so on.)

Sixth, trust that God’s blessings—especially in a difficult situation such as yours—far outweigh what might temporarily feel to you like a curse. Karin, the child you carry is created by God, loved by God, redeemed by God, destined for a future known by God. Your child will be a blessing, both as a family member, and as a friend to countless people—starting with you.

In Christian love, I make these suggestions to you. I make them for your good and for the good of your little one. I know that my advice goes against most of what you see and hear on campus, in the media, and online. Yes, I am proposing to you that you swim against the stream! At every stroke, you would be accompanied by our Lord, and you would have the example of His earthly Mother Mary to guide you. This way of life would not preclude completing your studies and seeking employment. But know this: Motherhood and marriage might well awaken within you moral and spiritual dimensions you do not realize you have.

You are often in my thoughts and my prayers.

You have my telephone number (for calls and texts) and my email address. If you would like to talk, please get in touch with me. I would be honored and thankful were you to ask that I drive to meet you for dinner, conversation, and prayer.

As we have prayed together many times, “May the Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26, and The Methodist Youth Fellowship [MYF] Benediction)

In Christ and with love,

Your pastor