(Subscribe to In Conversation With … on your favorite platform. It is always helpful if you will leave a rating and a review on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts.)
In the recent election, abortion access was a significant topic, ballot measure, and factor in voting choices. Not only is the country deeply divided on this issue, so too is the American church. In this conversation, Ideos’ Greg Arthur speaks with Angela Wesley, CEO of ProGrace, about the organization's mission to create a Jesus-centered approach to the complex issues surrounding abortion and unintended pregnancies that moves beyond the categories of being pro-choice or pro-life.
They discuss the importance of empathy, grace, and community support in addressing these sensitive topics, emphasizing the need for the church to be a safe space for women. Angela shares her personal journey to ProGrace, the challenges of navigating political divides, and the necessity of listening to the experiences of those affected by these issues. They dive into sexual ethics, theology, and reading scripture in a way that helps inform these conversations. This hopeful and honest conversation highlights the role of both men and women in fostering understanding and compassion, ultimately calling for a shift in how the church engages with these topics.
Make sure to visit ProGrace’s website to connect with their work and find their resources.
Check out Angela’s podcast, including a wonderful conversation with Christy Vines on How to Move from Debate to Dialogue Through the Power of Stories.
Takeaways
ProGrace aims to create a Jesus-centered approach to abortion conversations.
Empathy and understanding are crucial in addressing the complexities of unintended pregnancies.
The church should be a safe space for women facing difficult choices.
Listening to women's experiences is essential for meaningful support.
Dismantling shame is a key part of creating a supportive community.
Both men and women have roles in the conversation about abortion.
Curiosity and humility are necessary for understanding diverse perspectives.
Community support can significantly impact decision-making during crises.
The church must reflect on its own shortcomings in addressing these issues.
Creating a culture of belonging can help restore individuals' sense of self.
Chapters and Topics
00:00 Introduction to ProGrace and Its Mission
03:17 Angela Wesley's Journey to ProGrace
06:24 The Role of Grace in Addressing Abortion Conversations
09:16 Understanding the Political Landscape of Abortion
12:13 The Shift from Judgment to Support
15:12 The Importance of Community Support for Women
18:07 Rethinking Sin and Collective Responsibility
20:53 Jesus' Model of Compassion and Understanding
24:25 Encountering Grace and Truth
25:22 Dismantling Shame in the Church
26:43 Understanding Sexual Ethics and Vulnerability
28:16 The Role of Community in Healing
30:02 Curiosity and Humility in Conversations
32:01 The Church's Role in Addressing Abortion
33:41 Rallying Around Unintended Pregnancies
35:47 Creating Safe Spaces for Decision-Making
38:05 Empowering Voices with Lived Experience
40:09 Curiosity in Understanding Vulnerable Populations
42:09 Healing Through Gender Collaboration
44:04 Resources for Engaging in the Conversation
Share this post