Thursday, 04 August 2011 10:13

A Rachel’s Vineyard retreat has been scheduled in the Diocese of Wichita Aug. 26-28.
The retreat is a weekend designed to help those suffering from an abortion to examine their experience, identify the ways that the loss has impacted them, and help them acknowledge any unresolved feelings that many struggle with after an abortion.
Bonnie Toombs, director of the diocesan Respect Life and Social Justice Office, said, “Because of the emotional numbness and secrecy that often surrounds an abortion experience, conflicting emotions both during and after the event may remain unresolved.”
A Rachel’s Vineyard weekend is a retreat to help victims heal spiritually and emotionally, she said.
“We look to God in times of personal distress, trauma, and the loss of human life. The death caused by abortion leads to anguish and intense yearning for someone who cannot be retrieved. We weep, we recall regrets, our role in what has happened, and the child we will miss,” she said. “It is these painful moments of loss that we search for meaning – some greater power beyond ourselves and the reality of something more perfect than our infinitely frail humanity.”
Toombs invited anyone who is suffering from an abortion experience to attend: women and men who have lost children to abortion, and grandparents and siblings of aborted children are invited.
“Persons who have been involved in the abortion industry have come to Rachel’s Vineyard in search of peace and inner healing,” she added. “The weekend is a lot of work but yields a fruitful harvest for all who are willing to labor there.”
Why is it called Rachel’s Vineyard?
The name “Rachel” refers to an Old Testament figure in the book of Jeremiah: “Rachel mourns her children; she refuses to be consoled because her children are no more. Thus says the Lord: Cease your cries of mourning, wipe the tears from your eyes. The sorrow you have shown shall have its reward, says the Lord. There is hope for your future!”

Want to participate in a weekend?
All who are experiencing pain from abortion are invited to call for more information about the weekend retreats. Those who are interested in working in the vineyard may contact Bonnie Toombs at 316 269-4673 (HOPE) or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . All information is treated with strict confidence.