By Grace Henry
How did you first become involved in the pro-life movement?
I was thirteen when Roe v. Wade was passed, and my mom was part of a group of women from our church who were determined to respond. She volunteered to take over the monthly newsletter for Elkhart County Right to Life. We would sit around the living room table stamping and organizing the newsletters by ZIP code. At a certain point, we also began going to the abortion clinic to pray the rosary outside.
What has been the most meaningful experience for you in this work?
What impacted me the most was an incident I shared at a fundraiser a few years ago. We were praying the rosary outside the clinic when a couple drove up and parked. We prayed that they would continue to sit there and think about their decision, and they did. They sat in their car for about twenty minutes talking. Then they started the car, drove over to us, and said, “We’ve decided to keep our baby.”
That experience was incredibly moving and motivated me to continue this work. Since then, I have taken about thirty-seven of my nieces and nephews to the National March for Life so they can have that experience as well.
What have you learned from the people who disagree with you?
I believe there is a significant misunderstanding about when life begins. There is also a great deal of confusion about basic human biology. In addition, misinformation has been spread, and it has been effective in shaping people’s opinions.
What I have learned is the importance of being charitable toward those with whom I disagree. Many people say they support women, and I think it is important to have respectful conversations and explain that another human life is involved as well. I have also learned the reasons people give for supporting abortion.
What challenges have you faced in doing this type of work?
We are up against organizations with much greater funding and access to public platforms. Those of us in the pro-life movement are often small groups of dedicated people who simply want to continue advocating for what we believe in. It can feel like a David-and-Goliath situation, but we believe the truth is on our side. It is important to keep going even when turnout is small. Showing up to events and participating in life chains can make a meaningful difference.
What advice would you give to someone interested in getting involved with pro-life work?
There is nothing more rewarding than knowing you may have played even a small part in saving a life. The stakes are incredibly high, and I cannot think of another issue involving so many innocent human lives. The rewards may not come immediately, but I believe that, in the long run, our efforts will make a difference. Choose what you believe is right and commit yourself to it.
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