(The following is taken from a letter sent to our supporters at Care Net. I shared with them my heart for the ministry, and wanted to also share it with you.)
Recently, I sat down with our Board of Directors and we
discussed Care Net of SoMd, the ministry as a whole. At length, we talked about our
goals, our purpose, and our primary mission. In an effort to avoid “mission
creep” (doing good things that are not part of our original goals, which over
time lead us away from our actual mission statement), we reevaluated why we do
what we do. So of course, we asked ourselves these questions: Why are we here?
What is the point?
While there are many discussions still to be had together,
we all agreed that the ministry of Care Net is Kingdom work. Meaning, our
primary objective is to bring our clients to the saving knowledge of Jesus
Christ. Only then, will they truly understand value and worth – their value and worth – and therefore,
the worth of their baby. Yes, we want to stop abortions. Yes, we want to
support the mother. Yes, we want to be a light in the darkness where so many
struggle with unplanned pregnancies. But why do we want to do these things?
Because God created them in His likeness, and therefore, they are all valuable.
Regardless of their mistakes; regardless of their choices.
Sure, we can offer sonograms and STI testing, education and
material support. And Lord willing, they will make a choice for life as a
result of these efforts. But if they never acknowledge their need for Christ,
then there will never be true change, and they will only continue to perpetuate
this cycle.
This is why we offer all of these programs. This is why we
hold fundraisers and outreaches through the year. And I believe this is why you
have chosen to stand with us – because what we do and why we do it matters in
this community, and it matters in this world.
Here’s what some of our clients have had to say, just this
last month alone:
“I couldn’t be more comfortable [at Care Net].”
“It’s like my second home where I can share my feelings.”
“They make you feel welcome anytime. You can tell them anything about
your life. It’s really a great place to come especially if you need someone to
talk to.”
Building relationships takes time. We have to build trust first before
anything else happens. Some of our clients are “repeat” clients who have come
to us for help through multiple pregnancies. Sometimes it takes this long for
them to see our hearts and let their guards down. But many are new clients each
month, facing consequences of their choices and needing support, and they are
ready to hear truth. What is important is that our efforts in building
relationships and offering grace freely and unequivocally to those who come to
us are paying off in spiritual dividends: We have nearly tripled the amount of spiritual discussions we are able to have
with our clients from a year ago.
 |
| "Let us be concerned for one another, to help one another to show love and to do good." Heb 10:24 |
For more info about Care Net Pregnancy Center of Southern Maryland, or information on how to donate and join us in bringing hope and healing to our community, check us out here: www.friendsofcarenetsomd.org.
