Tuesday 1 July 2008

Over ten years ago, His Holiness, Pope John Paul II, recognised the need to extend the hand of compassion to women who had undergone abortion.

In Evangelium Vitae 1995, #99, His Holiness said the Church was aware of the many factors which have influenced the woman’s decision.

"In many cases, it was a painful and even shattering decision," His Holiness wrote.

"The wound in your heart may have not yet healed … do not lose hope … the father of Mercies is ready to give you his forgiveness and his peace in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

"You will come to understand that nothing is definitively lost and you will be able to ask forgiveness from your child who is now living with the Lord."

The trauma of undergoing an abortion can produce symptoms which may last for many years.

Both men and woman can suffer a range of symptoms with an increasing number seeking help after suffering for years in confusion and silence says Anne Sherston, National Director for Rachel’s Vineyard Catholic Retreats.

"These symptoms of post-abortion distress include depression, nightmares, self-blame, anger, guilt, shame, sleeping disorders and prolonged and unresolved grief," says Anne.

Rachel’s Vineyard ministry combines psychological and spiritual healing through a unique and creative process as well as a chance to get away from all the daily pressures of work and family to focus on this painful time in the person’s life through a supportive and non judgmental process.

Anne said married couples, mothers, fathers, grandparents and siblings, as well as those who have an involvement in the abortion industry, have come to Rachel’s Vineyard in search of peace and inner healing.

Since 1994, Rachel’s Vineyard has offered hundreds of retreats throughout the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, South America, Africa and a growing number of countries in Europe.

"Rachel’s Vineyard is growing because it is an extremely effective program for deep, inner reconciliation and healing," she said.

Anyone needing assistance to deal with the grief, anger and sense of responsibility can contact a counsellor on 1800 063 510 or via email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

The Rachel’s Vineyard Retreats (Tasmania) will also be hosting a National Conference, focusing on Hope and Healing after Abortion, from Friday 26th to Sunday 28th September 2008.

The Conference is for anyone involved in care for people affected by an abortion experience, from first time team members or supporters to veteran retreat coordinators.

It is also for professional counselors, priests, ministers from all religious denominations and pastoral assistants, health and community workers and anyone interested in this area of healing.  It will include keynote addresses and the opportunity to workshop particular interests in the retreat process and its preparation.

All sessions, meals and tuition will be held at the conference venue. Limited accommodation is available at the Blackman’s Bay venue; therefore it is essential early bookings are made. To access the registration form and other information, visit the website www.rachelsvineyard.org.au and follow the links to the 2008 National Conference.