by Jor-El Godsey, President of Heartbeat International

Yes, I know that Disney has veered from the wholesome family framework that made for such successes as Swiss Family Robinson, The Incredibles, and Pinocchio’s Geppetto. Indeed, much of their live-action material can hardly find even a single father figure worth emulating.

But there is one example that arises from the Star Wars universe.

The massive hit, The Mandalorian (especially season one), burst on the scene in 2019 with a new face, err, helmet, with Pedro Pascal as Din Djarin, the title role. (Note: For the six of you who haven’t heard of the story at all, there are slight spoilers ahead.) The Mandalorian is a bounty hunter, a profession not known for its genteel manners and soft people skills.

The storyline finds the Mandalorian on a bounty hunt for a particular creature whom the world soon knows only as “Baby Yoda.” (If I need to explain who Yoda is, you should just stop reading now and watch and come back after you watched Star Wars movies 5, 6, 1, 2, and 3, in that order.)

The cuteness factor of baby Yoda captures hearts of all kinds, including that of the grizzled bounty hunter, Din Djarin, the Mandalorian. For the entirety of the first two seasons of The Mandalorian, Grogu is referred to as “the child.” Masterfully rendered through puppetry and computer graphics imagery (CGI) the character evokes powerful aspects of a child. We only learn, later, that baby Yoda is named Grogu.

What follows is the Mandalorian’s transformation from bounty hunter to an unexpected father figure for Grogu, a.k.a. baby Yoda. This includes integrating into the clan-like culture of Mandalore. “You are a clan of two” the Armorer of the warrior race declares.

Just like some of the dads we encounter in our pregnancy help outreach, the Mandalorian is called to take up a mantle he did not plan on. He’s uncomfortable and even clumsy in how he steps into the role. But soon the call to protect and provide is stronger than what even his own culture has taught him. “Wherever I go, he goes,” says Din Djarin casting aside the lone wolf nature of his bounty hunter persona.

Dads are called to be providers and protectors of their children. Father’s Day is a time to celebrate that call and the efforts all fathers make toward that high and lofty aspiration. Some do so better than others. All dads pale in comparison to the unconditional love of our Father in Heaven (Jeremiah 31:3).

Of course, dads are not just those who contribute to the genetics of a baby. They are those who take up the mantle of being involved in the life of a child. Along with being a birth father and everyday dad from that moment, fathers arise through adoption or even mentorship. Fatherhood happens in traditional and blended families. Living under the same roof or actively engaged at a distance.

Men demonstrate fatherhood with intentional activities and exemplary actions. In that way, the Mandalorian demonstrated fathering for the "child.” Our Father in Heaven surely inspired the catchphrase for the show, “This is the way.”

by Ellen Foell, International Program Specialist

We all know that the world is ablaze with debate and fury on the issue of abortion. Unfortunately, that blaze is also occurring in the highest halls of government. And, nowhere is that more apparent than in the European Union, its Parliament, and its Court. On the one hand, the European Parliament voted in a directive that surrogacy can be a form of reproductive exploitation and human trafficking. That is great news.

On the other hand, the EU Parliament also recently voted in favor of including access to abortion as a fundamental right in the EU's Charter of Fundamental Rights. From the podium, hard-left French MEP Manon Aubry attacked what she called "reactionaries" on the right to vote against the measure, stating, "No, the right to abortion is not a controversial issue. It is a fundamental freedom. No, the right to abortion does not kill. On the contrary, it saves lives. And while you are quietly attacking it here in the European Parliament, [women] can count on us. We'll be with you all the way."

Fortunately, that vote is largely symbolic. The resolution is non-binding, and a full-fledged right to abortion access would require the backing of all 27 member states to be included in the EU's charter. But symbols have meaning. We need to be aware of our times and interpret them rightly.

Upcoming Summit

At the upcoming European Pregnancy Help Leaders Summit, Heartbeat is pleased to welcome attorney Guillermo A. Morales Sancho, Legal Counsel with ADF International, based in Vienna, Austria. He will draw upon his experience to discuss the most recent resolutions from the EU Parliament and their potential impact on pregnancy help centers in Europe. (Of course, we will also host speakers on fundraising, client services and center management.)

Soon, you can sign up to attend the EPHL Summit in Budapest, Hungary, on September 19-21,2024. Registration will open June 1, 2024. The registration is free for affiliates. If you need to affiliate, or re-affiliate, you can affiliate here  for $70.00USD. If you are not affiliated, the cost for registration and meals is $195.00 USD per person.

About Attorney Guillermo A. Morales Sancho

Guillermo A. Morales Sancho, PhD, serves as legal counsel, Europe, for ADF International in Vienna, Austria. He is a lawyer specializing in constitutional and human rights law and conducts legal advocacy in Europe to promote and protect parental rights, free speech, children’s right to life, as well as freedom of conscience and religion.¹

Your Role In Adversity

Awareness of the times in which we live can be the starting point at which we are reminded of these core truths:

- Unity: Discover why unity matters at such a time as this. This movement is bigger than any one of us. We must work together and stand strong against those who work so hard to break us apart.

- Peace: Remember your source of peace.

- Commitment and intentionality: At the core, this is a daily practice to remain committed to the mission and intentional in what you do.

Adversity is an opportunity we can seize to deepen our faith. The political endeavors to enshrine abortion into law around the world should propel us to remember our mission, unite in prayer and intercession (just as Paul and Silas chose to pray in their darkest moments), and focus vertically, keeping our eyes fixed on the Lord.

________________________________________________________________________________________

1. More information can be found here: https://adfinternational.org/our-team/guillermo-a-morales-sancho

by Ellen Foell, International Program Specialist

And, that’s a wrap for Heartbeat International’s 2024 conference, held in Salt Lake City, Utah from April 23-26. What a conference it was! It was our most well-attended conference yet, with over 2,000 persons attending in person and virtually (and counting, as our virtual conference continues). We had 14 nations represented and 48 internationals attended. If you were not able to attend, we missed you and hope you will consider attending next year’s conference.* 

Fortunately, even though the Heartbeat staff and attendees are all back in their seats at life-affirming organizations across the globe, the thematic call, United for Life, continues. In case you were not able to attend either the in-person or virtual conference, our key verse was Philippians 2:2, "...then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being united in spirit and purpose." We recently published an issue of Heartbeat Around the World on the call and need for unity. However, as we know, God’s word is timeless and ever-fresh. At this conference, it really struck me afresh that we are called to unity in many aspects.

We are called to be united in our...

• minds
• hearts
• spirits
• souls—including the outward expression of our purpose

Unity is an intentional, wholehearted, and whole-life effort to love our God, our neighbors, our clients, and our fellow life-affirming co-laborers with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength.

Sometimes, we can focus so much on the mission that we forget that love is at the very heart of our mission, and without love, our mission may very well sound like a clanging cymbal. Let us have the same love. Or, we can hyperfocus on the specific aspect of the life-affirming movement that we think our hyperfocus should be everyone’s hyperfocus. The life-affirming movement is multifaceted, and each of us is called to know our specific calling and our place on the "wall." As we pursue like-mindedness, the same love, unity in spirit and purpose, we will see God’s purposes and His glory cover the earth, as the waters cover the sea.

Speaking of God’s glory, take a look at this video of the Parade of Nations, as Heartbeat’s 97 affiliated nations’ flags were on display for God’s splendor.

*If you think you might be interested in attending next year’s conference and require a VISA to attend, do not wait until next year to get your VISA appointment. Heartbeat can send you an invitation to next year’s conference that you can take to your interview. As always, the letter is not a promise by Heartbeat to pay for expenses of registration, accommodations, or travel. It is to be used only for purposes of the VISA interview.

by Brooke Myrick BSN, RN, LAS, Healthcare Team Manager

Year after year nursing is named one of our nation's most trusted professions. What qualifies a nurse as trustworthy? A nurse is committed to putting others before themselves to provide the best care for those under their supervision. While nursing is a career developed to provide care to the ill and injured, during pregnancy help, it is vastly more. It is a call to a mission.

“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.” Isaiah 61:1

As a nurse in pregnancy help, you have accepted the call to proclaim the good news to those in need, and to proclaim freedom to those who feel they are in dire situations pleading for a way out. Through the name of Jesus, many women and men are released from a darkness that has held them captive. Many will choose life for their baby after meeting with you, a pregnancy help nurse. Those who undergo the devastation and heartache of a pregnancy loss will return to you for healing resources, comfort and support. At times those who have made an abortion decision will also turn to you when they begin to grieve and start the journey of seeking forgiveness and recovery.

The pregnancy help nurse is trusted by those she cares for as she provides unwavering love, care and support.

This mission is not always easy. It requires daily commitment and renewal.

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you. I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

This mission requires bravery and courage each and every day because it involves a battle for life today and for eternity. To continue in your role as a pregnancy help nurse, the mission must be fully understood and accepted. The mission is to remain faithful and obedient in sharing medical and spiritual truths in love while simultaneously, fully letting go and trusting God with the results and outcomes. A total dependence on the Author and Giver of life is required.

“Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” I John 4:4

“So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, and participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Philippians 2:1-4

With each client encounter, nurses in pregnancy help make an active choice to—in humility—count those they are serving as more significant than themselves. You welcome her without judgment. You listen to her story. You give your time and energy. You earn her trust. You offer medical and spiritual truths in love. You seek to meet her needs through your organization and community resources. You offer prayer. You share the good news of Jesus.

As you accept the pregnancy help nurse mission every day, you make a difference today and for generations to come.

“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer o' mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. Am I am sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:3-6

by Andrea Trudden, Vice President of Communications and Marketing

As we celebrate National Nurses Week, it's time to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes working tirelessly in pregnancy help organizations across the globe. These nurses, driven by a deep sense of compassion and guided by a Biblical worldview, stand as beacons of love and care, offering invaluable support to women and families in need.

Heartbeat International proudly celebrates these nurses during National Nurses Week, May 6 to May 12, and throughout the month. This year's theme, "Nurses Make the Difference," resonates profoundly with the extraordinary contributions these nurses make every day.

In pregnancy help organizations, nurses play a pivotal role in providing vital healthcare services while fostering an environment of empathy and understanding. They serve as pillars of strength for women facing unplanned pregnancies, offering not only medical assistance but also emotional support and guidance through challenging times.

At the heart of their work lies a deep commitment to the sanctity of life. These nurses recognize the inherent value of every human being, including the precious life growing within each expectant mother. With unwavering dedication, they advocate for life-affirming choices and empower women to embrace the miraculous journey of motherhood.

What sets them apart is their holistic approach to care. Beyond addressing medical needs, they take the time to listen, comfort, and affirm the dignity of every individual they encounter. Through their compassionate presence, these nurses instill hope and confidence in women who may feel overwhelmed or uncertain about the future.

Moreover, these nurses are not just healthcare providers; they are mentors and guides, sharing their wisdom and expertise with kindness. By imparting a Biblical worldview rooted in love and compassion, they illuminate a path of grace and redemption for those they serve.

This impact extends far beyond the walls of the pregnancy help organization, reaching into the hearts and homes of countless families. Through selfless dedication, they sow seeds of hope and healing, nurturing a culture of life and love within their communities.

As we express our gratitude to these remarkable nurses during National Nurses Week, let us also remember the profound difference they make in the lives of others. Their acts of kindness, words of encouragement, and commitment to life are testaments to the power of love in action.

To all the nurses in pregnancy help organizations, we thank you for your boundless compassion, tireless dedication, and unwavering commitment to the sanctity of life. You are true champions of love, and your work inspires us all to embrace the miracle of life with open arms and open hearts.

As we celebrate National Nurses Week, let us draw inspiration from the words of Galatians 6:9, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Thank you, nurses, for embodying this spirit of perseverance and love every day.

We announced the location of its 2025 Annual Pregnancy Help Conference at the close of our 2024 Conference! The location reveal is always highly anticipated by Conference attendees, and the announcement is made at the closing banquet for the event.

Our annual Conference is the largest gathering in the pregnancy help community. It is designed for ministry leaders, staff, board members, and volunteers of life-affirming pregnancy help centers, medical clinics, maternity homes, and non-profit adoption agencies, as well as professionals in the areas of medicine, counseling, social work, and education.

This year’s event, held in Salt Lake City, Utah, drew some 1,300 in attendance in person, and another 700 for the Virtual Conference.

The banquet room at the 2024 Conference erupted in cheers at the announcement of next year’s conference location: Birmingham, Alabama!

Announcing the city for the 2025 Pregnancy Help Conference, Heartbeat International President Jor-El Godsey said, “We went west, and now we’re going south!”

The reveal video featured quotes from Proverbs 27:17, “Iron sharpens iron” and “one person sharpens another” and ended with “Together Towards Tomorrow,” the 2025 Conference theme. Together Towards Tomorrow builds upon the 2024 theme of United for Life.

Citing the area’s historic nature and raw materials found at the 2025 Conference locale, the video presentation stated:

Rich in history and natural resources, where steel and iron are not only mined here but is symbolic of their strength and grit, next spring join us in Birmingham, Alabama. As iron sharpens iron, one person sharpens another – Together Towards Tomorrow.

"The 2025 Conference, themed "Together Towards Tomorrow," echoes our collective journey from unity to community, building on the foundation of 2024's "United for Life,"" she said. "Rooted in Proverbs 27:17 and set in the backdrop of the Iron City, Birmingham, AL, it signifies not just a location, but a shared commitment to growth through collaboration."

"The Annual Conference serves as a connecting point for pregnancy help organizations worldwide, offering a platform to exchange insights, embrace innovation, and uphold timeless principles," Trudden said. "Together, we glean wisdom, educate, and forge bonds that fortify our resolve to champion life."

The date for the 2025 Heartbeat International Annual Pregnancy Help Conference is
April 30-May 2.

We are proud to announce a new partnership with Embrace Grace!

Heartbeat International emphasizes the importance of supportive communities for individuals facing unexpected pregnancies, advocating for collaboration between pregnancy help organizations and churches to offer practical assistance and lifelong support. Partnering with Embrace Grace, we aim to engage churches in supporting pregnant women, echoing Pastor Tony Evans' analogy of pregnancy centers as first responders and churches as hospitals. Through this partnership, we will empower you to effectively connect clients with churches and churches with your pregnancy help organization for new tools, resources, and ongoing support. Join us in rewriting the narrative surrounding unplanned pregnancies by providing women holistic care that addresses immediate and lifelong needs, and promotes faith and spiritual growth that will impact generations through the church and into eternity through God's promise. We are so excited to see what God will do to stir the hearts of the churches in your community—to really link arms with your organization and serve single and pregnant moms and their families.

About Embrace Grace

"Embrace Grace exists to help inspire and equip the church to love and encourage single and pregnant young women and their families. Women experiencing unexpected pregnancies receive practical, spiritual, and emotional support through our global support groups." Click here to learn more about Embrace Grace.

Together, we can build a bridge between churches and pregnancy help worldwide.

 

 

 

Inspiring Your Clients to Walk into a Church - Article

Connecting with Churches Year-Round - Podcast

Engaging Pastors as Partners- Podcast

Fostering Year-Round Engagement - Article

Speaking at Churches in a Post-Roe World- Webinar Recording

Heartbeat/Embrace Grace Collaboration - Conference Recording

Sources

1. https://www.guttmacher.org/fact-sheet/induced-abortion-united-states

2. https://research.lifeway.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Care-Net-Final-Presentation-Report-Revised.pdf

by Valerie Harkins, Director of Maternity Housing Coalition for Heartbeat International

Picture a scene where the boardroom of a nonprofit echoes the spirited debate between the board of directors and the organization's leader. On one side, the board members advocate for evaluating a maternity home solely through data-driven metrics: numbers of women served, funds raised, and beds occupied. On the other side, the nonprofit leader passionately argues for a deeper understanding of success—one that transcends mere data points. This leader grapples with the challenge of articulating the true impact of the maternity home: the stories of hope restored, the lives transformed, and the futures redeemed. The tension mounts as both sides strive to navigate the delicate balance between tangible statistics and the intangible essence of mission-driven success.

In the dynamic landscape of nonprofit management, there exists a persistent allure towards borrowing business strategies as a formula for success. However, the notion that what we commonly understand, as business analytical principles are exclusive to the business realm, overlooks a crucial reality: these are not business principles, but instead represent a broader set of analytics of success applicable across social sectors. Many of the analytical approaches, such as empirical review of outputs, can certainly be used when evaluating a nonprofit, however, must be taken into context first to define success.

Defining Success

Oftentimes, businesses prioritize financial performance and market dominance, but nonprofits are fundamentally driven by mission-driven outcomes. Therefore, measuring success in a nonprofit context cannot be confined to traditional business metrics. Instead, it must be defined by the profound impact on the lives transformed in alignment with the organization's core mission.

Unlike the profit-driven models of businesses, the success of a nonprofit is intricately tied to its ability to effect positive change in communities and individuals. This change, however, cannot always be neatly quantified in dollars and cents. When dealing with complex issues, such as poverty alleviation, educational empowerment, or healthcare accessibility, the metrics of success extend far beyond financial gains. It requires a nuanced approach that combines quantitative data with qualitative insights to comprehensively assess the impact on the lives touched by the organization's mission.

The task assigned to the nonprofit leader then shifts to becoming a researcher of their own organization to gather evidence that points toward missional success—or failure. Missional failure becomes not only possible but more likely when a nonprofit is evaluated and led chiefly through objective data, neglecting the nuanced, human-centric aspects that truly define the organization's impact and success.

Learn More

Join us for an illuminating webinar on April 30, 2024, at 11 a.m. ET, where we delve deeper into why thinking like a business isn't the ultimate answer for nonprofit success. We will explore how to redefine success in the nonprofit sector and discuss practical strategies for effectively measuring and communicating your mission-driven impact. Save your spot and register today for this thought-provoking session that aims to empower nonprofit leaders and enthusiasts alike with invaluable insights and actionable strategies.

Together, let's redefine success and maximize our impact in the communities we serve.

Click here to register!

by Andrea Trudden, Vice President of Communications and Marketing at Heartbeat International

As we gather for the Heartbeat Conference this month, it's a time for reflection and renewal. In the journey of providing pregnancy help, we often encounter moments of doubt and setbacks, and it's imperative to remember that each day brings a new opportunity for growth and impact.

In the spirit of renewal, let's draw inspiration from the timeless wisdom found in scripture. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, we're reminded, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" This verse speaks directly to the concept of renewal, emphasizing that through our faith, we are continually made new. It's a powerful reminder that no matter what challenges we face, we have the capacity for transformation and renewal.

Just as setting goals for ourselves often brings a sense of hope and possibility, each day presents us with the chance to approach our work with fresh eyes and a renewed spirit.

Now, it's important to acknowledge that mistakes are inevitable. We're all human, and we'll predictably stumble along the way. However, it's how we respond to these setbacks that truly matters. Instead of dwelling on past failures, use them as opportunities for growth and learning. As Romans 12:2 reminds us, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

Approach each day as a fresh start, filled with endless possibilities. Just as each sunrise brings with it the promise of a new beginning, embrace the opportunity to chart a course toward positive change and transformation. Remember, as it says in Lamentations 3:22-23, "Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."

So let go of the "should haves" and "could haves" that weigh you down, and instead focus on the present moment. By embracing a mindset of renewal and growth, you'll find the strength and resilience to overcome any obstacles that come your way.

As we gather for the Heartbeat Conference, let's recommit ourselves to the important work we do. And, take heart! We are here to draw strength from each other and the promises of renewal found in scripture. Together, we can continue to make a profound difference in the lives of those we serve.

In February, International Program Specialist, Ellen Foell and Sara Dominguez, Affiliate Services Specialist, visited Australia! Below are some questions Ellen answered about her experience:

Have you been to Australia before?

Yes, about 30 years ago, when I was much younger and all 12 apostles were still extant. The 12 apostles are a limestone rock formation off the coast of Australia, and now there are only 7.5—not sure which apostles got voted out of the ocean.

How did this trip begin?

It began when a generous donor desired to launch a center internationally. The Life Launch program, under the purview of Sara Dominguez, has helped launch about 37 centers, helping centers in the U.S. to go farther, faster. Sara and I had been vetting candidates for an international launch when we met Dr. Mouawad in Sydney through Lara Wynyard, the Director of Pregnancy Help Australia (PHA). PHA is one of Heartbeat's nine international partner organizations. After talking to Dr. Mouawad and hearing her vision, we realized she was the candidate we were looking for. Her center is called Pregnancy and Life.

It was obvious that we should travel to Australia since I was also asked to speak at the PHA Conference, "Arise & Go," which was being held a little earlier in February in Adelaide, Australia. The two events coming together seemed like a great opportunity.

How long were you and Sara in Australia?

I was there for 2.5 weeks with the PHA Conference as one bookend of the stay, and the Life Launch training bookending the back end of my trip. Sara was there mostly for the Life Launch training itself in Sydney.

What PHOs did you visit during your time in Australia?

I visited Genesis, directed beautifully by Juli Sharpe. They do wonderful work, reaching out in various ways to the Adelaide community. Also, in Sydney I visited with Jenny Gurry, director of Diamond Women. Both centers are robust and effectively reaching women and families in their areas. I wish that I could have visited all 34 affiliated centers that are part of PHA.

What did your visit cover (curriculum, training, visits/meetings, etc.)?

At the PHA Conference, I was honored to keynote on the conference theme, which was based on the narrative of Deborah, found in the book of Judges.

I presented a workshop on "Raising the Standard," Heartbeat's training on the Commitment of Care and Competence, an agreement required by all affiliates.

Next, I presented a workshop, "Crowned with Dignity," which addresses the role of according God-given dignity to people around us and how restorative that is; based on the narrative of the interaction between Jesus and the woman at the well.

Then, at the Life Launch training, I was scheduled to train on the L.O.V.E. Approach to two groups of volunteers of about ten each group. Unfortunately for me— but perhaps fortunately for them—I lost my voice for three days and Sara stepped in to do what she does so often and so beautifully. However, I was able to do the second training.

Also, Sara and I also had a chance to meet with two of the board members and were blown away by their commitment to help the center.

Finally, I had a chance to sit in with Sara as she led the executive director through New Director training one-on-one (while I pretended to be invisible). It was trainings that were all pregnancy help center-related, much like we do at Pregnancy Help Institute, but one-on-one which was a great opportunity for Marie Rose (Dr. Mouawad) to ask any questions, take notes, etc.

How will the training/curriculum you (and Sara) provided improve their PHO in the future?

Training is training. They can be very static. But what takes training to the next level is the relationship that can form as a result of the training. Sara specifically, and Heartbeat generally, excels at relationship-building and keeping the bridge open for more help, questions, and encouragement. No center director should feel alone on the journey, from turning the key to opening the door on the first day.

How has Heartbeat (and their affiliation with us) made an impact on their organization(s)?

With regard to PHA, let me allow Lara, Director of PHA, to speak on behalf of PHA. PHA and Heartbeat have been partnering in this work for over 40 years. PHA is celebrating their 45th birthday this year (2024), so give them a shout-out and sing Happy Birthday! They are doing a great work. We hosted Lara in 2019 at our conference in Dallas, Texas. Last year, we hosted Anthony Moore (Genesis board chair) at our conference in Louisville, Kentucky.

What was the biggest thing you learned from or about the organizations you visited?

PHA is very healthy and very robust. Despite being stretched in all ways, the PHA leadership is coming up with very innovative and significant means to reach more centers so they can reach more women and families. Pregnancy and Life is being launched under the umbrella of Maronite Care which encompasses several outreaches of the Maronite Church. It is wonderful to see the church being so supportive and engaged with a new center.

What was the biggest takeaway from your visit to Australia?

Honestly, it sounds silly, but standing at the coast at some point, and realizing the next big land mass is Antarctica. Australia is really far away. On a less geographic note, what struck me was the incredible effort that PHA is putting forth to move west to east and north to south so that women in Australia are able to be reached with real alternatives to abortion. As to Dr. Mouawad, my takeaway was the amazing commitment she has to rescuing babies and women. She was inspired by our own Jor-El Godsey, President of Heartbeat International, who was in Australia in early 2023. Dr. Mouawad felt such a conviction in her heart that she determined that establishing a center was the call for her. 

Why is it important for us to connect internationally and between organizations?

If we really believe that we are better together, then we need to acknowledge that together only happens with intentionality and commitment. The global pregnancy help work probably exists in many more than the 94 countries in which Heartbeat is currently privileged to serve. The best way we connect with new centers and new countries is someone tells someone, who then tells someone else. I believe that God commands a blessing where the brothers and sisters dwell together in unity. One of our values at Heartbeat is unity, and we believe that we all work better together when we know we are not alone.

The thing I hear most often from international attendees at our pregnancy help conference for the first time is, "I could not believe so many others are doing the same work!" Let no one in this work feel they are alone. God has His armies everywhere.

Is there anything else that stood out to you or affected you during your time there? Anything that surprised you?

Yes, the thing that surprised me was a sad surprise mainly because it was a reflection of the state of the culture in Australia and the ongoing need for the work of the pregnancy help centers. A young woman at the LO.V.E. Approach training shared that she had a ten-month-old. When she went to her doctor to confirm pregnancy, the first words out of her doctor's mouth were not "Congratulations!" or, "I am so happy for you." Their first words were, "Do you intend to abort?" I was shocked. How sad that such great news could be and would be met with such a negative response. It confirmed again that our work is not just to save the babies, but also their moms, dads, community, and culture.