In this powerful blog, Jenny shares her story of going through baby loss, and calls on us to respond to this silent grief within our churches and in those around us, bringing hope and healing. Just over thirty three years ago, my husband and I attended our local antenatal clinic for a routine appointment. I … Read moreBABY LOSS AWARENESS WEEK: JENNY’S STORY
As Spring was beginning to appear, we were delighted to welcome 5 ladies to our latest post abortion weekend in the idyllic surroundings of Penhurst Retreat Centre… Although on the first day, the weather was grey and blustery, as the weekend progressed and we walked through our abortion recovery programme, the skies brightened and the … Read moreFULL HOUSE FOR OUR PENHURST HEALING RETREAT
Not only is Hillsborough in Northern Ireland the home of Hillsborough Castle, but also the home of Hope Church! Jenny had the privilege of speaking there at the end of January, on the theme of ‘Extravagant Love’. We looked at how Jesus gave this throughout his ministry, often in the most radical ways. We considered … Read moreA WARM WELCOME FOR OPEN IN HILLSBOROUGH
‘I no longer feel alone in my loss.’ 10 ladies from all over Northern Ireland came to our second Loved retreat in that region. Stunning views over the bay at Donaghadee again formed a most peaceful backdrop for the day. We shared our stories and recognised that we all had so much in common with … Read moreLOVED MISCARRIAGE HEALING DAY AT DONAGHADEE
In April, 15 ladies from the city of Cherkasy, Ukraine took part in a week’s training course, learning how to counsel women who face an unintended pregnancy. Jenny Baines and colleague Celia Wyatt, who both have many years experience of working in this area, were privileged to lead the training and to present certificates for … Read morePREGNANCY COUNSELLING COURSE
The stunning coastline of Donaghadee was the backdrop for our first Loved Miscarriage Retreat in Northern Ireland. Seven ladies came to share their stories, and to explore the struggles and emotions which followed their experience of miscarriage and other baby loss. Afterwards, one lady wrote: ‘ Baby loss is such a lonely thing and such … Read more‘LOVED’ HEALING DAY
OPEN made its first appearance at this year’s Cliff College Festival and we had many visitors to our stand. There were some wonderful conversations, some expressing deep pain. We were glad to tell of the help and support which is available, and hope to be working in partnership with other organisations represented there, in bringing … Read moreCLIFF COLLEGE FESTIVAL
Six ladies who attended the Loved healing day last October, met together over a delicious brunch, and shared ideas of how to make these days available all over the UK.Yorkshire and Derbyshire are next on our horizons! We are so encouraged by continued positive feedback from these days. Following a retreat in June, Alison wrote: … Read more‘LOVED’ HEALING DAY
On March 24th, over 30 leaders from across the denominations in Kettering, Northants, came together to learn more about OPEN and how to offer a compassionate pastoral response to those who have faced an unintended pregnancy or who may be struggling following an abortion experience. There was a great atmosphere and lively discussion throughout the … Read moreLEADERS TRAINING DAY
OPEN was delighted to have a presence at the One Event, a major Christian gathering on the Lincolnshire Showground over the August Bank Holiday. Some good and, at times, very moving conversations were had at our stand in the Exhibition area, and Jenny Baines and Hannah Holland also had the privilege of leading a seminar … Read moreOPEN AT THE ONE EVENT