lifechoices

Maya and John Chose Life!

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 16:17:25 GMT

“Maya and John”, a young couple just starting their lives together, visited Inspire. They were faced with an unplanned pregnancy.

A baby was not in their plans right now. They were working towards better jobs and a nicer place to live. They were excited about their future.

Despite these many challenges, we were ready and equipped to help them navigate this unexpected pregnancy.

We provided a safe space for Maya to reflect and share her thoughts and feelings about her pregnancy. She talked about a previous miscarriage years ago and how the loss was still painful.

We gently pointed out to her that terminating this pregnancy would mean yet another loss. Maya began to wonder if she could endure that emotional anguish again...could her dreams include a family sooner than planned?

With the support and encouragement Maya and John received from our staff and volunteers, they began to overcome their fears and consider new possibilities for their future.

Still undecided and vulnerable, they agreed to return for their ultrasound appointment.

But Maya and John did not return .

We knew what this could mean, so we called on our prayer warriors, near and far, and placed this precious couple in God’s hands.

6 weeks later, John called…they wanted an ultrasound to see their baby.

Maya and John chose LIFE!

A family was saved because Inspire was there to provide life affirming support and compassionate, loving care.

Our work saves lives!

Maya and John’s baby is due in September, the month of our major fundraiser:

Miles for Mothers

Sunday, September 24, 2023

It is only with your partnership that Inspire can continue to have a Life Changing Impact on mothers and families like Maya and John!

Miracles are happening at Inspire! Women need us now more than ever.

They need real support. Real answers. A real vision of hope.

Inspire is meeting their needs.

Did you know we pray for our mothers before, during and after their visit? God has been with us every step of the way and so have you.

Please support “Miles for Mothers” , our major fundraiser for the year, and help us reach our goal.

Your gift will help us serve more couples like “Maya and John,” and save MORE precious unborn children, equipping families to build legacies of Life!

YES! I'd like to support "MILES FOR MOTHERS"

Thank you and God bless you.

Rosanda Grau, Bunny Brinck-Lund and Carol Spina

Co-Founders, Inspire Family Life Center

Look what God has done! Our 1 Year Anniversary

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Thu, 08 Sep 2022 18:08:28 GMT

One year ago today, on September 8, 2021, on the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Inspire Family Life Center opened our doors.

By the grace of God and with the help of friends like you, we are accomplishing exactly what we set out to do:

transform hearts, save lives, and serve at-risk mothers and families.

It's been an amazing year of "firsts"; most notably:

Our first client

Our first ultrasound

Our first client parenting lesson

All culminating in the birth of our very first baby born in May!

We look to the future with grateful hearts and excitement.

Having served so many women and families over the past year, we are poised to keep the momentum going while fulfilling the tremendous potential we have of affecting even more lives for the better.

Inspire's medical services and education components, coupled with our compassionate and loving approach have proven to be a formula for success.

And we're still growing!

Please help us continue to move forward by supporting another "first".

All are invited to attend our very first

Miles for Mothers 5k Fun-Run/Walk Fundraiser

Sunday, September 25, 2022 (12pm-3pm)

@ Harry Dunham Park, Basking Ridge.

A day of family fun; service hours for confirmation students; refreshments, music and games; surprise give-a-ways!

Please help us by spreading the word and sharing this event with friends and family.

By supporting Miles for Mothers you will enable us to continue our life-changing work - one mother and family at a time.

May God bless you. See you at the finish line!

Elizabeth Chose Life!

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Wed, 31 Aug 2022 18:02:44 GMT

"If it wasn't for you, I'd be having an abortion tomorrow"

“Elizabeth” called Inspire Family Life Center for an appointment and arrived just 10 minutes later. Confused, pressured and feeling she had no other options, she came through our door.

At no cost to her, we provided:

· medical services and confirmation of her pregnancy via ultrasound imaging

· factual Life-Affirming Options Counseling and prenatal development information

· a safe and confidential place to share her concerns and challenges about her pregnancy and situation

· essential baby items and ongoing Life-Skills education and parenting lessons

· spiritual enrichment

· genuine care and compassion … Elizabeth chose LIFE!

At Inspire, we are meeting women’s needs by walking with them on their journey through their pregnancy and beyond.

Here’s what our clients are saying,

“I feel so warm and welcomed here and really listened to!”

“After talking with you, I don’t think of my pregnancy as hindering my success in life but instead empowering me to do more!”

“I never told anyone about my abortions before but I feel like I can tell you. You have given me hope for healing.”

“Wow! I had no idea…It is really a developed baby!”

“Oh my gosh, is that the heartbeat?”

Miracles are happening at Inspire!

Women need us now more than ever.

They need Real support. Real answers. A Real vision of hope.

Inspire is meeting their needs.

Did you know we pray for our mothers before, during and after their visit? God has been with us every step of the way and so have you.

But we need your continued partnership.

Please support

“Miles for Mothers” , our major fundraiser for the year!

Our goal is to raise $50k

Your gift will help us reach MORE women like “Elizabeth,”

save MORE precious unborn children and equip Families to build legacies of Life!

TOGETHER, we can bring LIGHT into the world and LIFE into the arms of a MOTHER!

YES! I'd like to support "MILES FOR MOTHERS"

Celebrate & Honor Dads

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 19:29:24 GMT

On Father’s Day, we celebrate and honor all the great men who serve, sacrifice for, and love their families!

We are grateful for you and for your example which builds solid foundations for society. The world is stronger because of role models like you.

Your lives inspire us to cultivate programs for young dads that will empower and encourage them to be at their best for themselves and their families, especially as they witness the miracle of new life.

I have the great fortune of having a "hero" dad so this Father’s Day, I thought I’d share a heartwarming story of the man whose influence on my life shaped me. It's an event from decades ago that makes me laugh every time I think of it. I hope you enjoy the story.

---

"Years ago for Father's Day, I surprised my dad with a hot air balloon ride. Up until the last minute of the car ride to Branchburg, he didn't know what was about to happen to him, until he saw the giant basket in the open field, and even then it didn't quite sink in.

One thing to know about my father: he's a practical, logical, realist. Definitely not a "balloon surprise" kind of guy. But in my 20 year old mind I thought it was the coolest gift ever and I worked hard for it, too. It took me weeks to save up for the $110 ticket.

I have to say my father was a good sport. With no mental preparation at all he climbed onboard the wicker aircraft and ascended into the June sky.

My mom and I followed behind with the ground crew in the balloon chase van. It was all so exciting (at least for me), though my mother seemed genuinely terrified. Still, she mustered a few smiles as I kept reassuring her how spectacular it all was.

Everything went according to plan, until we lost track of the balloon. Dusk turned to dark and then it started to rain. It seemed like hours went by as we drove around frantically searching for the missing balloon in the downpour.

My mom began to cry. Ambulances drove by with sirens blaring. All I could think of was that I killed my father ... with a giant balloon .

Eventually, I succumbed to the tears as well. Would we ever get him back?

Meanwhile, uncertainty loomed in the sky. The time had come for an emergency landing.

With darkness at hand and no open fields in sight, the balloon abruptly settled (aka crashed) in a small backyard guarded by large, angry dogs.

My father sprained his ankle from the violent touch down.

After the dogs were restrained by their owners, the balloon crew managed to drag the humiliated wreck to the side of the highway. They stood stunned and silent, ultimately hitching a ride with a trusting soul in a red pick up truck.

Miraculously (and mercifully) while on the hunt for my father in the balloon chase van, we somehow spotted the large wicker basket on the back of the truck.

What a relief! I didn't kill my dad.

Our reunion was a little awkward as he relayed his ordeal, limping back to our car, soaking wet.

I was extremely embarrassed and the guilt was heavy.

Still, despite the terror and injury, I had to ask. "How was it, dad? Was it amazing? Did you love it?"

And then my father spoke the words I treasure to this day:

He said, "Rosanda, next year, just get me a shirt."

Rosanda Grau

Co-Founder, Executive Director

INSPIRE Family Life Center

A Prayer for Mothers

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Sat, 07 May 2022 22:24:48 GMT

Lord, lavish Your Mercy on mothers.

Those on earth, and those in Heaven.

Those with a child in their womb,

and those with a child in their arms.

For mothers enveloped in joy.

For mothers who are suffering.

Lord, we pray for mothers whose hearts are full,

and for those whose hearts are broken.

We pray for mothers who long for the

embrace of their own mother, and for those

who long to be a mother themselves.

Lord, the fruits of motherhood are poured

into eternity, where You know each child by name.

Jesus, we thank You for the great gift of

motherhood, and for giving us your own mother, Mary.

We thank you for Grandmothers and the

laughter of children.

Bless all women who have loved,

sacrificed and cared for a child.

Shelter them in Your compassion.

Nurture them in the fire of Your love.

Infuse them with Your grace.

Now and forever.

Amen.

By: Rosanda Grau

Co-Founder, Executive Director

Inspire Family Life Center

Take Joy in the Risen Christ!

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Sun, 17 Apr 2022 16:40:03 GMT

Happy Easter! May the joy and hope of the Season brighten your hearts and minds.

After 40 days of Lent and the sorrows of Holy Week, the glory of God has been revealed. The Lord has conquered death while carving a personal path to Heaven for each and every one of us.

We are not only given Life ─ but Eternal Life, where we’ll experience the “Joy of Christ's Presence” forever.

We have so much to be grateful for!

The miracle of the Resurrection is fuel for us at Inspire because. We know that HOPE changes everything.

So, we continue to work towards a world where every preborn child has the opportunity to first experience an abundant life on earth – and then in Heaven – without their earthly existence being denied them.

We work towards a world where every preborn child will grow up to enjoy the simple delights we cherish every day – like gazing at the stars and sky, riding a bike and walking a dog – the embrace of friendship and family.

With every human life comes the inevitable imprint of a unique soul that will somehow change the world forever.

Nothing and no one will ever be the same, because that person was born and lived.

With your help, we are leaving our own imprint on this world ─ one of mercy, compassion and love for the mothers and families who come through our doors seeking help.

Serving them is a privilege and honor.

But, it would be impossible without you! Thank you joining us on this faith filled journey and for your gifts of time, talent and treasure.

Together, we take joy in the Risen Christ.

Rosanda Grau

Co-Founder, Executive Director

INSPIRE Family Life Center

www.InspireFamilyLifeCenter.com Photo by Catrina-Farrell-WGURAGVvs7g-unsplash

The Love of Our Fathers

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 19:31:42 GMT

Happy Father's Day!

Heaven and Earth are overflowing with the love of our fathers.

Happy Father's Day!

At Ispire Family Life Center, we appreciate the value of fathers and know how crucial they are for building strong, healthy and faith filled families.

Quite frankly, they are irreplaceable.

We'd like to wish all dads a Happy and Blessed Father's Day. May our Heavenly Father protect you and your families today and always.

Thank you for your sacrificial love.

We'd also like to thank all those who have generously sponsored our "Open Wide the Doors to Inspire" Campaign.

Because of you, we are almost half way to our goal!

But it's not too late to make an impact.

Your support can make all the difference in helping us serve the most vulnerable among us.

Why not consider honoring your father with the gift of Life?

Your donation will help us promote fatherhood and build families that will further the culture of life in our community.

Your gift, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to opening the doors to Inspire.

Thank you and Happy Father's Day!

Carol Spina, Bunny Brinck-Lund & Rosanda Grau

Co-Founders, Inspire Family Life Center

www.InspireFamilyLifeCenter.com

Open Wide the Doors to INSPIRE!

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Fri, 07 May 2021 17:27:19 GMT

Our New Center in Downtown Warren!

We have exciting News!

Through hard work, perseverance and prayer, we are steps away from opening the doors of

INSPIRE Family Life Center in Warren NJ.

We have obtained...

Approval of our 501(c)3 nonprofit status
A beautiful facility in Warren
Dedicated volunteers who completed training courses
A Licensed Medical Director

We are almost ready to Open Our Doors!

Your help is needed to make it possible!

We invite you to join our Campaign:

“Open Wide the Doors to Inspire”

(Mother’s Day to Father’s Day)

Our goal is to raise $100,000.00

Your support will enable us to...

Build two counseling rooms where clients will feel safe
Customize and equip the ultrasound room with medical supplies and equipment
Build a warm & welcoming reception area for women & families
Design and equip the Baby Boutique for critical material aid
Hire a part time ultrasound technician
Expand marketing efforts to reach at-risk women
Equip the Center with computers & a phone system to effectively reach and serve clients
Provide necessary educational course programs and materials to empower mothers and families

You can support our campaign by simply clicking here ... or you can create your own fundraising page.

It's EASY!

Invite your friends and family to help us reach our goal. Every gift counts and will make all of the difference.

The Campaign software will connect with your email list and social media pages so you can share the exciting news about INSPIRE and our life changing work.

Please help us provide the services and resources that vulnerable women need so we can "help mothers LOVE life and help families LIVE life."

No one should have to go through a difficult pregnancy alone.

Children are Precious…so are Families.

We formed Inspire to love & serve them both.

We are ready to walk with them… it’s exciting!

Please click here to help make it possible.

Thank you and God bless you!

Carol Spina, Bunny Brinck-Lund & Rosanda Grau

Co-Founders, Inspire Family Life Center

INSPIRE Welcomes Gina Cordano!

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Thu, 29 Apr 2021 17:40:20 GMT

Welcome Gina!

Pictured: Gina Cordano & Carol Spina, Chair, Inspire FLC

In gratitude and joy, we welcome Gina Cordano to Inspire Family Life Center's Board of Directors.

With her many gifts and leadership qualities, Gina is poised to help move us forward during this vital point in our development.

Gina is not only on fire for our mission, but has a genuine and irresistible servant’s heart – especially when it comes to mothers, babies and families.

A graduate of St. John's University, Gina is mother to three beautiful daughters and a wife of 26 years. She is a daughter, sister, daughter-in-law, and friend to many. Family is everything to Gina.

Spending time with family and friends, taking various Bible courses and enjoying good food and wine are among the things she loves to do.

Gina is continually striving to be a better person and believes in her heart that "God is in control of it all." She is actively engaged in various charitable works and feels blessed with the many opportunities she's been given to volunteer and serve.

Uppermost on her heart is inspiring others through our beautiful, life-saving mission. Already, she's made a difference.

Please join us in a prayer of thanksgiving for Gina’s “yes” to Inspire!

Rosanda Grau

Co-Founder, Executive Director

www.InspireFamilyLifeCenter.com

INSPIRE has found a permanent location!

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Tue, 20 Apr 2021 17:35:41 GMT

GREAT news and MORE great news

After many months of effort and prayer, along with the tremendous support of friends like you, Inspire Family Life Center has found and secured our permanent location!

By the grace of God, we’ve been led directly into the heart of Warren in Somerset County .

With a central location bordering Middlesex, Union and Morris counties, we’ll have a broad reach; being just minutes away from Routes 78, 22 and 287.

Neighboring towns include The Plainfields, Dunellen, Green Brook, Bound Brook, Somerville and Bridgewater. We’ll still be just 15 minutes away from our current location in Piscataway.

The next few months will be focused on tailoring our beautiful newfound space to specifically meet the needs of our future clients – with their comfort and care our top priority.

Beginning this next phase of our journey is a sweet and awesome joy and we look forward to keeping you updated on our progress.

But on the heels of this great news … came MORE great news!

Our 501(c)3 application has been approved. Inspire Family Life Center is now an officially registered charity organization. All gifts received before this recognition are retroactive to 9-14-2020 and will be recognized by the IRS as deductible contributions.

The Inspire Team would like to thank you for your incredible support and belief in our ministry. Burned into our hearts is immense gratitude for each and every one of you.

We are humbled by the generous outpouring of time, treasure and prayer that you have shown us.

Together, we are creating something beautiful to serve God’s people.

The only way to repay you is by doing the work He has called us to do.

Together, we will achieve this goal!

For life and family,

Carol Spina, Bunny Brinck-Lund & Rosanda Grau

Co-Founders, Inspire Family Life Center

www.InspireFamilyLifeCenter.com

Your name on His lips, Your face on His heart

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 13:05:31 GMT

As we draw closer to commemorating the suffering and death of our Lord on Good Friday, there are infinite avenues of mystery on which to pray and meditate on – guiding us into the heart of His Passion.

Two in particular inspire wonder

• That Jesus suffered and died for everyone who ever was, is and will be (including today’s pre-born children)

• That He would have done it all just for you

Both of these realities are staggering in scope - seemingly impossible grasp. But perhaps on Good Friday, it’s best to push all intellect aside and proceed with “heart” alone ─ allowing our love to do what our minds cannot - c onsole our Merciful Savior, with every drop of adoration we have for Him.

After all, His tortured body is Love personified. Every wound, every fall, every cry, every agony of the Lord is a heart unto itself.

Beating … just for you.

Breaking … just for you.

There is no pain we will ever encounter in our lives which the Lord has not undergone ─ throughout His life and during His Passion. Yet perhaps a portion of His greatest sufferings are brought on by indifference ─ from those who don’t bother to give Him a second glance.

And that’s where the mystery deepens.

Because “… while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” – Rom 5:4.

Fully knowing our betrayals, conceit and wickedness, He spared nothing of Himself so that we might be free.

What the mind cannot grasp – the heart can take hold of.

Let us join our hearts in adoration to accompany the Lord on His sorrowful journey – loving Him as the Savior of the world and as the God-Man who died … just for you

With your name on His lips … your face on His heart

May we live our lives in faithfulness to His incomprehensible Love and Sacrifice.

Thank you, Jesus! We Trust in You.

Rosanda Grau

Co-Founder & Executive Director

Inspire Family Life Center

A Milestone for Inspire!

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 19:23:12 GMT

Extending a Hand in Client Advocacy

Exciting NEWS!

We have reached another MILESTONE in preparation to opening our doors at INSPIRE Family Life Center!

Our first Client Advocate Training has been completed with an incredible group of passionate volunteers wanting to help women with unexpected pregnancies.

These courageous women have jumped right in to serve!

By completing our online and in person training for the critical role of Client Advocate – they have taken the first steps in learning how to walk with vulnerable, at-risk women. God has placed a special call on the hearts of our volunteers: to extend a hand of hope and friendship to these women, with the hope of meeting their needs and making a profound difference in their lives; especially in the midst of a tornado of unexpected pregnancy.

It is through this important L.O.V.E Approach training, that the winds of the spinning tornado can be calmed by…

• Listening and Learning about our client and her situation without judgement.

• Sharing Options that she may not have considered in a factual, loving and caring way.

• Awakening a Vision in her for a future of hope; and revealing her Value ─ that she is worthy, created in God’s image and loved. Many hearts are melted, tears flow because this message was never spoken and never heard.

• By Extending this support, equipping her with accurate information and medical diagnosis of pregnancy through Ultrasound imaging, along with needed resources, women are Empowered to take the next step for themselves and their baby!

The tornado stops spinning and the storm begins to subside.

Helping and walking with women with unexpected pregnancies has been a gift for me. As a Client Advocate in a pregnancy help center, I have witnessed and empathized with women in their pain, confusion and fear with unplanned pregnancies, meeting them where they are without judgement.

It is a privilege to journey with them, share God’s love for them, lift them in prayer and watch their hearts transform ─ a witness to the power of God’s grace .

One young girl in particular has imprinted on my heart. At just 17 years old, she was already a mother but unexpectedly pregnant with her second child. She was overwhelmed, scared, fearful of telling her mother, living in poverty and uncertain about her future as a teen mother with two children.

We talked, we cried, we prayed.

Through the miraculous technology of Ultrasound, coupled with shared facts and truths about fetal development along with the risks of abortion, she chose LIFE!

She says, “My 2 daughters now give me strength and courage to be the best mother I can be. I went back to school so I can provide for them and give them a better future!”

Inspire was formed with the desire to help women just like this young mother. Now, by the grace of God, we are equipping Client Advocates to serve them! Every day, we come closer to opening our doors to those in need of not only our services, but our loving and faith filled approach to meeting their needs.

Please join our efforts in any capacity, so we can reach more women and Inspire them to CHOOSE life and help their families LIVE life !

Thank you for your prayers and support for INSPIRE!

Carol Spina

Co-Founder, Chair

INSPIRE Family Life Center

Pray for our Children

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 17:11:20 GMT

Wednesday mornings I attend Mass along with the kindergartners and first graders from our school.

Usually, I sit in the back, where it’s impossible not to observe their adorable movements and miniature frames as they squirm inside their winter coats while trying so hard to be still. Everything about them is perfect – they’re a joy .

But it’s when their tiny voices recite the prayers in unison – especially the “Our Father” – that I feel moved by the sounds of their innocence.

Instinctively, I implore God for their protection.

After 20 years in the prolife movement, 12 of them working directly with women and teens inside a pregnancy help center, I’m all too familiar with the dangers that lurk ahead for our children, especially the scourge of abortion.

It’s never too early to begin praying for them.

As the gap between 1st grade and 1st pregnancy diminishes, more than ever before childhood has become fleeting. Our culture has eroded its edges like a dangerous storm, leaving our children exposed to deadly projectiles in the form of harmful teachings on sexuality and “choice”.

Read about the bill passed in the New Jersey legislature in December of 2020 which will teach sex education to Kindergartners in public schools. On February 25, 2021, it will become law by default, unless the Governor decides to veto.

This legislation, coupled with New Jersey’s proposed Reproductive Freedom Act , is a direct attack on vulnerable women, families and innocent children. To protect them, we must always be one step ahead.

Inspire is our response to these challenges. With so much at stake in our state of New Jersey, we are poised to make a profound difference in the lives of those particularly at risk.

With our loving support, free services and a continued hand of hope and friendship, we'll be equipping families with the tools they need to not only survie - but thrive .

As parents, we must utilise this same strategy for our children

praying they become everything God created them to be –

not what the culture creates them to be

We must equip them with tools to thrive in a society whose beliefs are contrary to so many of our own, especially pertaining to the sanctity of life.

They deserve nothing less.

In the meantime, please pray for the children of New Jersey along with the at-risk women and families we’ll be serving in the near future. Although we don't yet know their names, God does ... and we look to Him to guide them directly to our open doors.

In gratitude, we pray for the Lord's blessings on you, your children and all those you hold dear.

Rosanda Grau

Co-Founder & Executive Director

Inspire Family Life Center

Let God Be Your Valentine - A Meditation

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 16:33:28 GMT

The true shape of the heart is the shape of the cross, from which pour forth all of our efforts at Inspire.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, and the entire world takes on the shape of a heart, I’m drawn to the church and the shape of the cross, where I gaze at the beauty of my Savior.

He loves me – though I’m broken

He sees me – though at times I feel invisible

He listens to me – when I can hardly speak

He heals me – though my mistakes are a revolving door

I ask him, “Lord, how can I possibly serve others, with all these broken parts?”

But I’m quickly reminded it’s not about me.

It’s all about Him.

With a mission rooted in Christ, our work at Inspire is a response to God’s love and the outpouring of grace that’s needed to help others. We serve with our scars alongside our joys; our childlike questions coupled with proven answers. We serve with a desire to share His perfect love, even in the midst of our inner storms.

We are trained to understand that responding to God's call comes with a spiritual toolbelt – so whether we’re broken, whole or someplace in between, the work is accomplished. Because it’s never about us.

It’s always about Him.

Behind every human valentine is a thousand tiny crosses. Behind our Heavenly Valentine, there is only one – the cross of our Merciful Savior.

My prayer …

Jesus, will you be my love?

Will you bind the wounds and still the sounds of this world which sometimes overwhelms me?

Jesus, will you be my love?

Will you walk beside me hand in hand as I stumble through your universe?

Jesus, will you be my love?

Will you write the music, if I promise to sing?

Will you teach me the words, if I lose their all their meanings?

Will you read me the part how you love me, even before I was formed in the womb.

Please tell me the story of how you spread out your arms, even as my eyes stray daily from your mystery.

I'm sorry, Lord

Please help me to share your love with those who are starving for the touch of your hand.

All I want is for them to know you.

Jesus, will you be my only love?

(His answer is "yes")

The true shape of the heart is the shape of the cross, from which pour forth all of our efforts at Inspire.

May you bask in the presence of His love. May God be your Valentine!

Rosanda Grau

Co-Founder & Executive Director

www.InspireFamilyLifeCenter.com

Inspire Volunteer's Pro Life Conversion Story

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Fri, 05 Feb 2021 20:47:38 GMT

I’ve heard it said that if it wasn’t for the “buts” in the Bible, we would all be in trouble. My story is no different.

"Transparency is the key to breakthrough" is a saying I hear often from my pastor.

So, this being Black History Month, I want to be transparent as a woman, wife and mother of why I’m pro life.

Until 2005, I was a pro choice advocate. 2005 is when I became a born again Christian. Prior to that my thoughts on abortion were "it’s a woman’s choice, and it’s no big deal".

That was my point of view, even when I found myself pregnant in 1997. I was about 28 years old with a full-time job, going to school, and was living with my then boyfriend and soon to be hubby. However, I didn’t want or wasn’t ready for a family.

This is how and why I know the grace of God was in our relationship from the beginning:

1. I was with a man who actually wanted to have a family.

2. I had a friend who wasn’t afraid to tell me the truth of her story of abortion.

When my husband and I were dating, he never shied away from the fact that he wanted kids. I, however, was indifferent, and wasn’t looking to start a family. With my work and going to college, kids were the farthest thing from my mind - until I became pregnant.

When I told my boyfriend/hubby I was thinking about abortion, he supported me in the decision, but he wasn’t necessarily in agreement with it. I told my girlfriend what my decision was, and she shared with me her abortion experience. It surprised me since she was married with kids. What she said to me still rings in my head to this day:

“Steph, trust me, you don’t want to do this because it’s really not a good feeling. I wish I hadn’t done it.”

I thank God to this day for that conversation with my friend. Had I not heeded her words, I would have missed 23 years of raising my young, handsome, intelligent black son - missed seeing him graduate from college. I would have missed our long talks about race, religion and politics. I would have missed seeing his relationship with Christ blossom. I would have missed my son. Because of a selfish, indifferent decision.

But God…

Here’s another thought that stays with me. My mother, 53 years ago, faced the same dilemma at 46! Her older sister persuaded her at the time to abort me. My mom asked her three young adult kids what they thought. My siblings stuck up for me and told my mom to go for it and have the baby.

Again, but God!

It’s unfortunate as we celebrate Black History that so many black babies’ own history will be forever silenced, unable to tell their story. However, God, by His grace and mercy, is raising up a remnant who have not bowed their knees at the altar of Baal.

The Lord is raising up a young generation, like my son, who sees the darkness of the abortion industry and isn’t afraid to speak out.

The Lord is using pregnancy centers like Inspire to bring truth and awareness to women of color in communities and to come alongside them. Not to condemn or preach at them, but to help them. It’s in this that we can have hope that more black voices can tell their STORY.

But God!

Stephanie Torrey

Visit Stephanie's Devotional Blog @ www.SpeakingTruthinLov.com

Hope & Healing After Abortion

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 19:43:44 GMT

This is a guest post from Beth Anne FitzPatrick who is partnering with Inspire to help bring healing to women and men wounded by abortion.

“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old,

but on building the new” - Socrates

Let us begin a new day in the world of Pro-Life.

Everyone has opinions and feelings regarding abortion. Our ministry chooses to focus on listening to the men and women that speak from personal experience. They are the ones who are the true witnesses to reality. They have bitten from the apple and now are left having to live with the consequences.

They know of what they speak.

An important part of our ministry focuses on post-abortion healing. Are you feeling a whisper from God? Are you feeling a desire to explore healing? If so, our ministry is here to walk beside you and help to unfold the mystery that God may be calling you to.

Don’t allow your past experiences to tell you who you are but rather come and discover the richness that unravels through your pain. Let us help dry your tears, feel your pain that is deep within your heart and begin the new year with a fresh and new beginning.

My eyes and heart have been opened wide and love pours out to accompany the afflicted on their healing journey.

This is sacred space . To hold a woman in your arms who has experienced the torture of hell and regrets her “choice” is an experience that I cherish.

One day a young woman came to me right after her abortion. I held her for hours as she wailed out loud her torment and regret. She allowed me to become a witness to the pain in the deepest chamber of her heart.

Abortion is a sentence to darkness and God is the invitation to light. Abortion is a national tragedy, but the good news is that the days of lies are being exposed and the hour of truth is here. America is waking up to the fact that our people are living in an era of “forbidden grief” surrounded by the sound of silence.

As we look at the word EVIL -spell it backwards and we have LIVE!

We are all called to live our lives fully and to embrace God’s abundant mercy. As we do, we can be part of the generation to save the nation from this dark abyss.

Let us usher in a new day. Let us accept a call to action; let us stop asking why they keep doing it and start asking why we keep allowing it?

Don’t carry your regrets around with you, instead place them under your feet and use them as stepping stones to rise above them.

We’re here to help.

I created this video to bring awareness to all those who are suffering. You are not alone.

Beth Anne FitzPatrick

48 Years - Miracles Amidst Tragedy

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Fri, 22 Jan 2021 13:59:23 GMT

On the anniversary of Roe v Wade our nation marks 48 years of abortion on demand, at any stage and for any reason. Our hearts bow down in mourning as we remember the 62+ million innocent children who suffered a violent death at the hands of a nation that refused to protect them.

With every minute that passes, the numbers rise, with an estimated 2,600 abortions per day.

In 1973 the Supreme Court failed to answer the fundamental question “When does life begin?"

With today's developments in ultrasound technology the answer is both miraculous and obvious, but the question has conveniently changed. Now we ask “Whose life has value?” or “Whose life is worthy of protection?”

In the eyes of the law, the preborn child is valued only if she is “wanted”. Rejected for any reason, she becomes disposable and literally thrown away - oftentimes sold for "parts".

This is the horrific reality unfolding daily – an unspeakable tragedy.

But throughout these decades of opression and evil, God has been working .

The tireless efforts and unrelenting voice of the prolife movement has impacted generations. Through legislation, prayer and awareness, countless lives have been saved and hearts restored over all these 48 years.

Surely we are surrounded by miracles. We just don't know all their names.

For that reason, the abortion lobby works overtime to enact extreme new laws that kill children up until birth while putting women’s lives in danger, like New Jersey’s proposed Reproductive Freedom Act.

Pregnancy centers especially have been under attack because of the impact they have on at risk women targeted by big abortion. To us, a life saved is a victory. To them, it's a profit loss.

Here's the good news. Today ...

there are more pregnancy centers than abortion clinics nationwide

80% of women will choose life after viewing their ultrasound at a pregnancy help center (provided by professionals at not cost to her)

a woman who has changed her mind after taking the deadly and dangerous abortion pill can call a hotline number to connect with a doctor; potentially reversing the process and saving the life of her child

We must take heart knowing that God is on our side, and this battle belongs to the Lord.

Each and every day He inspires His faithful to steadfastly serve in love and humility, reflecting the beauty and compassion of Christ. With mercy, peace, prayer and persevearance we move forward, keeping in mind what we're sacrificing for – the lives of children created in His image; the souls of their mothers and fathers.

Going back to 1973, the highest court in the land must have known the answer to the question "When does life begin?”, but they washed their hands like Pilate, hiding behind the nonexistent “right to privacy” in the constitution.

Today in 2021, we know unequivocally that at the moment of conception, a new life begins and at 21 days the tiny heart starts beating; at 20 weeks the child can feel pain.

As a member of the human family, she has infinite value and is worthy of every legal protection – anything less is unacceptable.

But the more we know and the more that's revealed through science and medicine, the louder the clamor of big abortion. So they keep changing the goalposts and revising the questions.

We know the answers, but abortion will never be one of them.

Rosanda Grau

Co-Founder & Executive Director

www.InspireFamilyLifeCenter.com

Learn more about New Jersey's Reproductive Freedom Act

Lear more about Abortion Pill Reversal

Volunteers - Music to God's Ears

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Wed, 13 Jan 2021 20:31:43 GMT

An Invitation

Today at Inspire we celebrate volunteers and the invaluable role they play in ministry. Since we are 90% volunteer run, we know first-hand that their work is vital and their presence is a gift. Without volunteers, it would be impossible to serve!

Using music as a metaphor to describe their role, it would go something like this:

The Mission is the Score.

The Volunteers are the Orchestra.

The Melodies are the interplay between those who are being served, and those who serve ─

improvisation at its finest.

Simply put: volunteers animate the mission from paper and pen by bringing it to life for all to see, experience and hear.

But what draws a person to a particular ministry? How do they start? What compels them to make that first call, send that initial email or walk into an organization saying, “I want to serve” ?

Over the years, while working with dozens of volunteers in the pro life and pregnancy help movement, I’ve noticed two distinct entryways into ministry; those who respond well within their comfort zone - and those who step way out of it.

For some, it takes great courage to try something new; to eclipse fear of the unknown with faith in the unseen. For others, it’s as natural as a hug. For many, it just takes time to make a move.

The backstories of how volunteers first entered into ministry are as interesting as the people themselves. This quote from a friend is among my favorites: “I’ve been driving by this building for years wanting to come in, and today was the day I decided to do it!”

Simple as that.

Regardless of how volunteers start, the beautiful thing is that they do. They respond to a call – an invitation ; either from a friend, a campaign or the Lord Himself.

When it’s God doing the calling, it can be impossible to resist.

After all, He knows our gifts and the desires of our heart much better than we do. He knows the good we can do. And He knows it’s good for us to do it.

The Lord gave us our particular gifts with expectations that we share them. How and where is up to us.

But He gives us clues along the way.

Our skills and personality traits, coupled with the myriad of intangibles that make us who we are, also make us perfectly suited to serve in our own unique way. With trust, God will carve the path.

All we need do is respond to the innate desire we all share to make a difference in this world – to be part of something meaningful and beautiful and to give glory to God through our interests, training, talents and abilities; whether it’s sealing envelopes, providing an ultrasound, event planning, or counseling an abortion minded mother.

The transforming power of our involvement lies not so much in the job or function, but the motivation behind it – Love .

Volunteers are messengers of God’s love, which is an instrument we all know how to play .

And that is music to God’s ears.

That's why today, we invite you to volunteer with INSPIRE!

Your gifts can help further our Mission. Your presence can make all the difference in helping us serve vulnerable women, children and families.

Your time is our treasure.

Simply download our Job Descriptions and Volunteer Form and email back to us at info@inspirefamilylifecenter.com.

We can’t wait to make music with you!

For life and family,

Rosanda Grau

Co-Founder & Executive Director

www.InspireFamilyLifeCenter.com

No Distancing from the Pre-Born Child

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Wed, 30 Dec 2020 19:18:43 GMT

Hope for 2021

Together we take a breath. It’s almost over.

The final hours of 2020 will soon be relegated to history and memory as the doors of the New Year are about to burst open. 2020 was a tough one for sure, and only God knows what each of us endured and how we were personally affected by the virus that reshaped the landscape of our lives; with many suffering the ultimate heartache – loss of a loved one.

It was a year when simple things became hard and some things became impossible. Everything shifted. Our world changed.

An invisible life-threatening element entered our daily existence and with that threat came an overriding umbrella of protection attempting to keep us safe from harm. Social Distancing was instituted among various measures to protect us. At times, it felt as though we were perpetually 6 feet apart from everything and everyone we held dear. For both the young and old alike, isolation and loneliness became a concern. But we were protected.

“ Virtual everything ” was another course of action adopted by schools, workplaces, and even houses of worship. Suddenly, we depended on links to gain access to something as simple as a smile or as crucial as a doctor’s visit. Practically overnight, we transitioned from an in-person society to one condensed to the awkward regions of our own personal devices.

We made it work; we were protected. These measures were enacted to save lives. Certain lives, that is. But not all.

Herein lies the blindness.

The helpless preborn child remained forgotten, unseen and unprotected.

For unborn babies:

• Social distancing from the abortionist was impossible; as the procedure was deemed “essential”

• The invisible life-threatening element of chemical abortions continued, now via virtual doctor visits

No matter the year or the hour, the threat of death is ever-present for unborn children in danger of abortion. Innocent, defenseless life juxtaposed with the total absence of legal protection is an unspeakable daily reality which cries out to God for justice.

Our unborn neighbors are fully human, fully precious and fully deserving of every legal protection, yet they continue to be the targets of barbaric laws that expose the hypocrisy of how far society will go to save some – and how low to destroy others. The backdrop of 2020 revealed this hypocrisy like never before.

Yet the unborn child is not the only victim. The child’s mother, father and all involved will suffer pain and loss in one form or another – it’s only a matter of time. But it’s a matter of great urgency.

Q: “So what have we done about it?”

A: “We formed Inspire Family Life Center”

Providentially, the Lord moved us to action “for such a time as this”, for “nothing is impossible with God” – not even in 2020.

He sharpened our resolve to respond to the cries of injustice.

He increased our hunger to build something new.

He instilled in us the thirst for Beauty, Goodness & Truth.

He’s providing us with the tools we need to make it happen.

It’s His work – and we’re ready.

We invite you to partner with us and join us in prayer - for supporters and eager volunteers to accomplish our Mission and achieve our Vision.

2021 is just a heartbeat away – let's make it happen!

Wishing you and yours all of God’s blessings and protection for a Healthy, Happy & Prosperous New Year!

For life and family,

Rosanda Grau

C o-Founder & Executive Director

Inspire Family Life Center

For Unto Us a Child is Born

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 22:34:12 GMT

Enveloped in light and wonder, the world joins hands on Christmas Day to celebrate the birth of a child. A child who brings hope, joy and love. A child who brings peace.

This child is the Father’s Gift, overflowing with new beginnings.

“… and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

His name is Emmanuel, meaning “God with us”. Through him, “death has lost its sting”. With him comes the “fulfillment of all desire”.

Yet the circumstances of Jesus’ birth are not what we’d imagine for a mighty King. There were no deluxe accommodations on Christmas night ─ not even a reservation. His bed was made of straw. His "room" was shared with animals.

A Savior in a stable. A King in trough.

What is God showing us?

Despite the absence of “comfort” on that cold Christmas night, the everlasting presence of LOVE is all that was needed to save the world ─ the Incarnation in a family's embrace.

God is saying …

"Children are so precious ─ I chose to become one"

"Mothers are so beautiful ─ I chose to have one"

"Fathers are irreplaceable ─ I chose one to protect me"

Throughout His life, beginning at the Annunciation and ending on the cross, Jesus’ family shines as bright as the Star of Bethlehem. He did not come into this world to be alone. Waiting with open arms were his loving mother, Mary and his devoted father, Joseph. Together they faced trials, rejection, danger and tribulations. They also laughed, enjoyed meals and worked together side by side.

They shared life … as a family.

On that Holy night in Bethlehem, when our Savior Christ was born, his mother and father searched and searched yet there was no room for them at the inn. When they were finally allowed to settle in the stable to bring him into the world, it seems as though they were lacking so much.

But the truth is, they had everything they needed ─ each other, God and the love of family .

Our prayer at Inspire Family Life Center is that every child will be as welcomed, loved and anticipated as the Christ Child. We pray for protection of children and family. We pray for God's will to illuminate the heart of our nation. We pray for peace in the world, and peace in the womb.

We pray for you ─ that your hearts will be inspired by the Love of Jesus and the Joy of the Holy Family.

Merry Christmas!

Rosanda Grau

Co-Founder & Executive Director

Inspire Family Life Center

Welcome to INSPIRE Family Life Center!

henry@newwavenj.com (Henry Warner) — Thu, 12 Nov 2020 22:42:31 GMT

From the Inaugural Meeting of INSPIRE Family Life Center on October 13th, 2020.

In just a few short months (since our official incorporation date of September 14th), we have laid the foundation of a brand-new ministry which we hope and pray will save pre-born lives and serve precious families for generations to come.

Our mission and purpose are fueled by God’s eternal love for each and every person on earth, no matter their “size” (fetus or full grown) or their “location” (in the womb or in the world).

During INSPIRE’s early stages of formation, we place great trust in this love, as we identify, in a special way, with the preborn child

“Our size” right now, we are small (but not for long!)

“Our location” right now, we are in a temporary, donated office space.

But this present status is just the first stage of our journey. Everything we are meant to be is a blueprint etched in our hearts as well as our business plan.

Our team is strong, drawing on decades of business experience and direct work in the pregnancy help movement; in Executive, Board and Client Advocate capacities. We have come together as like-minded individuals with a shared vision.

We are excited!

Utilizing all the gifts we have; we are eager to begin serving God’s most vulnerable people in a location where we’ll have the greatest impact.

As we quickly transition from one phase of development to the next, we hold fast to the words of the prophet Jeremiah:

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future”.

One day, in the very near future, an INSPIRE client advocate will share this verse with an abortion minded mother, assuring her that choosing life equals choosing love . We will provide her with the practical, emotional and spiritual resources to make that “hope and future” a reality. We will let her know in word and deed that she is not alone. We will rejoice in the saving of her innocent child and the transformation of her mother’s heart. We will assist in building up her family.

But for the moment, as we wait on the approval of our 501 (c) 3 status (update: as of 4-8-2-21 our approved 501 (c) 3 application has been approved!), and search for a permanent location, we apply Jeremiah’s words directly to ourselves. The Lord’s promise of a “hope and a future” imparts us at INSPIRE with the confidence and assurance needed to navigate the many challenges of building a ministry from ground up.

But whenever the Lord desires to create something new, His constant presence is a stronghold.

So, much like our future abortion minded mother, we know we are not alone.

God is with us, and we hope that you will be, too.

The fight for life and family requires an army.

Would you like to join?

We welcome you with open arms along with any gifts you’d like to share ─ gifts of time, talent and treasure.

We need them to serve.

We need them to save - children, mothers and families.

In the coming weeks, as we continue to grow the ministry which God has placed on our hearts, please reach out at any time, and remember to keep us in your prayers.

For there is much to do, but the seeds have already been planted.

And just like the preborn child, all we need is some time to grow!

For Life and Family,

Bunny Brinck-Lund, Rosanda Grau & Carol Spina

Founders, Inspire Family Life Center