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We recenly hosted a new event called Asking For A Friend. This particular session focused on how we can be more equipped to support friends and loved ones who have experienced a miscarriage.

‘A Heart of Compassion’ was the theme for two online pastoral training events held recently in Amblecote Community Church, Stourbridge. These evenings were led by Jenny Baines from OPEN, and Judy McGibbon, Director of Pregnancy Centres Network. On the first evening, we looked at how we can support those who have experienced pregnancy loss through … Read moreA ‘HEART OF COMPASSION’

During the National Baby Loss Awareness Week in October 2020, Jenny was invited to share her own story of baby loss, and to talk about ways in which we can learn to stand alongside those who have experienced this.

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