Dateline: February 14, 2001
In a previous Feature, we looked at the Society of Centurions, founded with the help of Dr. Philip Ney. Originally founded to help abortionists in Eastern European countries, the Society of Centurions is supported by prolife leaders such as Father Frank Pavone of Priests for Life. In more recent years, former abortion nurse Joan Appleton started a branch of the Society of Centurions in the United States.
In the next Feature, we looked at the need for time to heal from the wounds of working in abortion. In the next Feature, we looked at the web of lies needed to work in an abortion setting. Another Feature looked at what leads folks into abortion to begin with.
The question is, what should prolifers do to make the transition out of the abortion industry easier for the walking wounded?
Appleton stresses that it's important not to treat a reformed abortionist like a hero. They have a heavy burden of guilt and shame to deal with, and can't live up to the expectations we place on them. And the adulation, Appleton points out, is misplaced. The real heros, she stresses, are not the returning prodigals, but the faithful sons and daughters who have toiled unnoticed without ever straying.
Those in the abortion industry, and those leaving it, need to know that there is help and redemption for them. "The Prodigal Project" is the outreach program to those still in the abortion industry. It alerts them to the fact that the Society of Centurions exists -- people who have been there, done that, and truly understand. Groups who regularly sidewalk council, picket, or pray outside abortion facilities can get leaflets to give to abortion staff encouraging them to contact the Society of Centurions.
Also, we shouldn't expect those who leave the abortion industry to immediately get up and start telling complete strangers about their experiences. To relive the guilt and shame in front of strangers, before healing from the experience (and the abuse that often leads workers into the abortion industry) just rubs salt into the wounds. Give abortion industry refugees time and space to heal.
For more information, contact the Society of Centurions of America at PO Box 75368, St. Paul, MN 55175, Phone 651-771-1500, Fax 651-771-6967.
Previous articles
