Birthright: A Ministry of Compassion and Dignity for All

As Pope St. John Paul II once said, “I plead with you — never, ever give up on hope, never doubt, never tire, and never become discouraged. Be not afraid.” Birthright of Stillwater is doing their part to follow this command as they provide essential help to women in our community. An unexpected pregnancy is a time that is often filled with fear, discouragement, and hopelessness for these women. But Birthright is there to support, encourage and give them hope.

Birthright is a national charter but it is also a part of the ministries and stewardship of St. Francis Xavier. The parish supports the Birthright center and is a source of support and evangelization for the women that they encounter. The board is made up of parishioners from St. Francis Xavier, and the center is supported by the parish as well as several other churches and groups in the community.

“The message of Birthright is that of love,” says Jeanne Campbell, who has served as director for nearly two years. “Every baby has the right to be born. We show love to others like Jesus did and offer compassion to others with a servant’s heart.” The center provides counseling services to pregnant women and helps to make them aware of their options. Assisting the women with important needs — from housing to education and helping connect them to essential services that they need as well — the center typically supports the families for two years.

“We have around 20 volunteers between the ages of 18 and 91,” Jeanne says. “We have a hospitality committee that provides food and refreshments for our classes and educational sessions once a quarter. These classes include life skills such as budgeting and applying for jobs. We have some fun classes, as well. We also just started a group on emotional wellness.”

This ministry is truly doing God’s work to provide dignity to all human life. As Birthright supports the mothers through these difficult times, it also gives dignity and humanity to the unborn children.

“We see that we are doing the Lord’s work and He guides us,” Jeanne says. “Sometimes we struggle to figure out where we will get the money for something or trying to figure out how we will make something work. Yet, He always provides. It really is truly amazing to see how faithful He is in this work.”

The generosity of the parish is a huge blessing. Birthright is always looking for prayers and more volunteers. Pull-up diapers and wipes are always needed. Presently, they are in need of boys’ clothes and maternity clothes.

Jeanne Campbell, Joyce Pool and Joshua Hawkins serving with Birthright

If you are interested in volunteering with Birthright, please contact 405-377-5683 and ask to speak with Joyce. Donations may be dropped off during office hours — Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Wednesday, from 3 to 6 p.m. Arrangements can also be made to pick up donations by calling the office.