[Stengapsept]

When I think about abortion, I always get angry at 1.The culture in general, which says it's okay, and 2.The abortion industry, which often pressures people and gives women false information. I wouldn't think there would be too many women who would have an abortion with a completely clear conscience before and afterward; I'd think most would have at least a little remorse or regret. It would be interesting to research how many women have repeated abortions, and how many learn their lesson (whether about the sanctity of human life, or simply about family planning) after the first time.

P.S. With the proliferation of birth control options, it's surprising that unwanted pregnancies occur as often as they do.

Dear Rebecca,

Excellent points; like you, I find it hard to believe that there are many women who come to this place and leave it with an untroubled conscience.

We might want to remember the The Orthodox Office of Prayer and Supplication for the Victims of Abortion
O most merciful, all gracious and compassionate Lord Jesus Christ our Savior, Son of God: we entreat Thee, most gracious Master: look with compassion upon Thy children who have been condemned to death by the unjust judgement of men. And as Thou hast promised to bestow the heavenly kingdom on them born of water and the Spirit, and who in blamelessness of life have been translated unto Thee; and Who said, "Suffer the little children to come unto me, for of such is the kingdom of heaven" - we humbly pray, according to Thy unfailing promise: grant the inheritance of Thy kingdom to the multitude of spotless infants who have been cruelly murdered in the abortuaries of this land; for Thou art the resurrection and the life and the repose of all Thy servants and of these innocents, O Christ our God. It is a beautiful and moving prayer.

Is there also a prayer for the women involved?

In Christ,

John