Birth Mothers Gather to Share Stories of Adoption
Birth mothers ranging in age from 25 to 75 came together in July to share their stories at an event co-sponsored by Catholic Charities and the Archdiocesan Office for Marriage, Family and Life.
An Archdiocesan priest presided over a healing mass and the birth mothers had an opportunity to name the child they placed during a candle ceremony. Participants connected with each other and with local resources.
Catholic Charities’ Family Services Director Mary Ann Sullivan moderated the event and therapist Jean Gregg from Catholic Charities’ Counseling Services was a featured speaker.
Adoption Services Program Manager Connie Roller said the idea came from a group of women who drew Archbishop John Nienstedt’s attention to the unmet needs of women who made adoption plans in the past. This year marked the second annual event for birth mothers.
“Participants represented the range of adoption experiences from secrecy and shame to openness and contact,” Roller says. “The event was really special. It was definitely a positive experience for me.”
Learn how you can help
Read more current news
Read Catholic Charities' blog
|
