Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bethesda, The House of Mercy?
Is it private?
How long will it take?
How does it work?
How much does it cost?
Who can come?
Is the sin of abortion unforgivable?
What if you are not a “religious” person?
What else does Bethesda offer?
How are we supported?
Where do we meet?

What is Bethesda, The House of Mercy?

Founded in 1990 by the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, Bethesda - The House of Mercy is a post abortion healing ministry of The Community of Jesus the Living Mercy. We are a community of women who are committed to sharing the message of love and mercy of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

Is it private?

Bethesda’s ministry is based on respect and trust of individuals. We offer a confidential, safe place providing support, prayer, reconciliation, and spiritual renewal for anyone wounded by abortion.

How long will it take?

Each journey is different and only God knows. Time is secondary to the real goal of experiencing God’s mercy. We believe that the work of God begins and germinates in the hidden places of our hearts, awaiting His perfect timing to come to full bloom.

How does it work?

Once a call is placed by the post- aborted women she is matched with a peer support women- a women who has had abortions, but now lives in God’s healing love. One on one peer support meetings are set up by the individuals involved on a weekly basis. Your peer support person commits to guiding you through your healing process. A manual is used to uncover all the wounds of the heart so that you will find peace. A psychologist and our chaplain who are trained in post-abortion trauma are also available to meet with you.

How much does it cost?

There is no fee for the ministry offered by Bethesda - The House of Mercy.

Who can come?

This ministry is designed mostly for women, but is available to anyone who suffers the consequences of an abortion. We believe and recognize that abortion wounds the body, mind, soul and spirit.

Is the sin of abortion unforgivable?

There is no sin greater then God’s love and mercy. He offers forgiveness to those who ask. Equally important, he teaches us how to forgive ourselves for our sin of abortion and how to forgive those who have hurt us.

What if you are not a “religious” person?

It’s “okay”- come as you are. Bethesda offers a confidential and safe place to explore one’s life. Bethesda offers an opportunity to be “free” to review one’s life without judgment or expectations.

What else does Bethesda offer?

Besides one on one peer support, Bethesda offers an annual retreat, days and evenings of reflection, a resource library and other opportunites for fellowship and spiritual growth.

How are we supported?

All members of the team give freely of their time and talent. We receive funding from the Sisters of The Good Shepherd and private donations from those who share in the ministry's mission.

Where do we meet?

Once a meeting is arranged with a peer support member, directions will be provided. If you are interested in speaking to a peer support minister visit our contact us page.