"PATH" stands for Post Abortion Treatment and Healing. It is a ministry with a dual purpose. The first purpose is to walk individuals through the grieving process, which is often thwarted following an abortion. An individual may simply not allow oneself to feel sorrow and loss, because of feelings of guilt regarding the decision to abort. The post-abortion group serves as a safe place for one to honestly address his or her feelings and explore, with others, how she or he came to make this decision and why it is so painful today. Layers of denial, anger and confusion are unraveled, giving way to acceptance and forgiveness.

The second purpose of the post-abortion group is to help individuals become reconciled with God. Many women and men are extremely fearful that they can never be forgiven; that this is the one unforgivable sin. As a result, they stop attending church, stop participating in many church-like activities, and stop praying. The post-abortion group facilitator strives to represent the loving forgiveness and presence of Christ, and to lead these individuals back to him.

Facilitators for PATH are able to lead women and men through the grief process with the help of Scripture study workbooks, entitled Forgiven and Set Free, for women, and Healing a Father's Heart for men. Both were written by Linda Cochran and published by the Christian Action Council. At the conclusion of the study a prayer service is held, led by a priest or minister. A priest offers the sacrament of reconciliation to Catholic participants.

Presently PATH has 20 trained volunteer facilitators. Many of our facilitators have been through the abortion experience themselves, have completed the Bible study program, and attended the PATH training. Many of our staff have a Master's in Counseling, Master's in Religious Education, Master's in Social Work, and/or are trained in Spiritual Direction. It is very common that those who have found healing and experienced the incredible mercy and compassion of Christ want to extend that hope to others.

PATH offers both group and individual support to women and men. An average group meets for 14-16 weeks, once a week, for an hour and one half. We meet in various churches all over the metro Atlanta area. Our program has the utmost respect for our participants' privacy, so confidentiality is strictly maintained. PATH asks three things of our participants - commitment, confidentiality, and $10.00 for the workbook. A donation at the completion of the program is much appreciated, but not required.

If PATH looks like a ministry you would like to know more about please do not hesitate to contact us. We would love the privilege of leading you through this process.

PATH facilitators are also available to speak to youth groups, church organizations, or any group interested in our services. We also provide educational materials upon request.

PATH Prayer