Ministry to Birthfamilies

Birthmother Charm Bracelet

A Sunday school class or small group could take on this project, which ministers to birthmothers. Often, birthmoms feel like the weight of the world is on their shoulders. After making the bracelets and cards as described below, deliver them to the pregnancy counselor at the local Bethany office. The counselor will then use these as gifts of encouragement.

Include a card with a message like this: “May the heart reassure you that your heart deserves a safe place, and that Bethany will always be that safe place for you. May the diamond (crystal) remind you that we are all diamonds in the rough, and that sometimes we need to dig deep to find the treasure in others and ourselves. The leaf is to symbolize that there will be many seasons in your life…times of growth, times of grief, times of flourishing, and times of letting go and quiet waiting. The pearl is to remind you that you will always be valuable in your child’s life. No one can ever replace you as the one who gave life to your child. The cross symbolizes Christ’s enduring love for you and His constant presence in your life. Your bracelet is connected by a fine wire cable to remind you that all birthmothers are connected and that there is strength in being together in His name.”

Those making bracelets should add a personal note of encouragement to the above message.

Guidelines for creating the bracelet:

  1. Nylon coated jewelry wire (recommend 19-strand with .015 inch diameter)
  2. Clasp and crimping beads
  3. Seed beads or other small beads to fill in the bracelet between the following:
    1. Pearl bead
    2. Swarovski crystal that is similar to a diamond
    3. Charm or bead that represents a heart
    4. Charm in the shape of a cross
    5. Charm or bead that represents a leaf

Maternity Clothes Closet
Ask women who will not be using their maternity clothes in the future to bring them to your Maternity Clothes Closet. The clothes can be distributed to birthmothers. Most pregnancy care centers are already in short supply of storage space. You should consider keeping the clothes at your own church or a designated location. This will also give you the opportunity to meet the birthmom when she comes to try on the clothes.

Mentoring
Most people are far more open to the opportunity of spiritual growth during a crisis time in their life. Many single birthmoms may feel shunned by family members, friends, and even church families. This is a great opportunity to support and show the love of Jesus to a woman who may need someone to mentor her in some basics of life. Mentoring can lead to a relationship that lasts a lifetime.

Bible Study
Host a Bible Study specifically for birthmoms. Some of the birthmoms might be interested in networking with others who are going through the same situation in life. By hosting a Bible Study, you will be able to help prepare these women for the transitions that they will experience. Many of them may be feeling guilt, shame, or exclusion. You will be able to help them understand the love and forgiveness that is found in a relationship with Jesus Christ.