In this article Jane Winn uses four vignettes to show how God can work in the lives of those impacted by unplanned pregnancies. Jane will be speaking on this topic in her session titled Inside a Crisis Pregnancy Center at the 2009 CCEF National Conference in November. Please click here for more information.

*   *   *   *   *

“Mom. Dad. I’m pregnant.”

Christian parents never expect to hear these dreaded words, but when they do, their lives change instantly and dramatically. Unplanned pregnancies cause significant emotional pain and disruption for every member of the family—parents, siblings, extended family members, and even church members. Crisis counseling intervenes and assists these families in rebuilding their relationships with each other and with God.

The four vignettes in this article reflect God’s redemptive work in the lives of Christian families who hear the devastating news of teenage unplanned pregnancies. One teen slowly restores relationships with her parents after seeking God’s forgiveness. A mother struggles with anger and bitterness towards her pregnant daughter, then reaches a point where she can offer forgiveness. The daughter of a pastor writes a letter to church members, bringing the role of the church into focus. Finally, I share my own experience as one who found the Lord’s love and forgiveness as He prepared me for this special ministry.

This article was published in The Journal of Biblical Counseling in Spring 2003, Volume 21, Number 3.

Jane K. Winn, MSS, LSW, has worked full time as a licensed counselor at Amnion Crisis Pregnancy Center since 1997. She graduated from Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Social Work and has a Certificate in Biblical Counseling from CCEF.