FAQ
What if I had my abortion many years ago? Should I still come?
Yes, many of our participants come decades after their abortion experience.
Do you offer post-abortion counseling or abortion grief counseling?
We offer a list of recommended professional counselors in the great Minneapolis / St. Paul area.
Do I have to be a Christian or practicing Catholic to come on a retreat?
No, definitely not. The Rachel’s Vineyard retreat is designed to bring healing to all the wounds of trauma, including the spiritual wounds. Although the Rachel’s Vineyard retreat was written from a Judeo/Christian point of view we welcome people of any or no religious practice. No one is ever pressured or expected to change their practice or adopt a new one.
Why do you include both men and women on the retreat? Don’t they each need their own retreat?
We take great care to provide an environment that is safe and supportive for everyone who attends our retreat seeking the same thing – healing from the trauma of abortion. By going through the retreat process together, women and men recognize that they share many of the same wounds of guilt and grief and the desire for healing. Along the way a great deal of fear, shame and blame falls away, replaced by greater appreciation and respect for one another.
What does the name “Rachel’s Vineyard” mean?
Rachel is a woman in the Bible who is weeping for her children “who are no more”, but the Lord says, “there is hope for your future!” (See Jeremiah 31:15)
The Vineyard refers to Jesus being the life-giving vine and we are the branches (see John 15). Whoever remains in Jesus will bear much fruit, for without Him we can do nothing. “As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you. Abide in my love.”
Rachel’s Vineyard retreats are a place where people who are grieving an abortion can find hope, forgiveness, and fruitfulness in Christ.
Is it normal to feel negative emotions about my abortion many years past the event?
Yes. Many women and men experience trauma for many years. Sadly there is a push to “destigmatize abortion” or “normalize abortion” which is very detrimental for those who still deal with grief, shame, guilt, anger, or other emotions. Emotions do not typically go away on their own and the best way to experience freedom is to acknowledge and deal with them in a healthy way. Rachel’s Vineyard retreats have helped many women and men to experience the freedom that Christ gives for ANY sin and past choices.
If I chose abortion, do I have the right to grieve the loss of my child?
Yes. Your experience is most likely complex and at Rachel’s Vineyard retreats we offer a memorial service where you can remember and honor your children. For many, this is a very healing time in their journey, as they realize they are not alone in their grief.
Is Rachel’s Vineyard a crisis pregnancy center (or pregnancy resource center)?
No, but to discover a crisis pregnancy center near you please visit elevatelifeusa.org