Family
Countering the Anti-Family Trend with Pro-Life, Pro-Family Solutions
In a striking reflection of the current cultural climate, a Michigan state representative recently underwent sterilization surgery, citing concerns about “reproductive freedom” under political pressures and potential restrictions. This decision is symptomatic of a broader, deeply concerning trend: an increasing societal reluctance to embrace parenthood, fueled by fear and a prioritization of individualism over the foundational societal unit—the family.
The declining birth rates seen globally and the failure of pro-natalist policies signal a more profound crisis: the erosion of family values and the perception of children as burdens rather than blessings. Such attitudes highlight a stark departure from the biblical injunction to “be fruitful and multiply,” underscoring a societal shift towards viewing personal freedom and desire as paramount.
However, amidst discussions on birth rates and reproductive rights, the pro-life community must focus on comprehensive solutions that extend beyond mere opposition to abortion. Adoption, a life-affirming option, remains grossly underemphasized and underutilized. This option represents a loving and viable solution for both the unborn child and the mother, yet it is often overshadowed by the binary debate between parenting and abortion.
The narrative that forces pregnant women to choose either single parenthood or abortion needs to be challenged vigorously. We must advocate for a culture that recognizes and supports adoption as a positive alternative, providing tangible support for women in crisis pregnancies and bolstering resources for foster and adoptive families.
Building a pro-family society involves more than legislative action; it requires a fundamental cultural shift towards valuing the family as the cornerstone of societal strength. Families foster strong communities, which in turn underpin robust cities, states, and nations. A society that values familial bonds and the welfare of children over stark individualism is key to sustainable societal health and stability.
The principle of subsidiarity should guide our approach, emphasizing that the most effective family-supportive decisions are made closest to where they will be implemented, particularly within local communities and churches. These bodies are best positioned to offer direct support to families, advocate for pro-life values, and champion adoption over abortion.
The case of the state representative’s choice for sterilization, driven by fear and political statement, is a wake-up call to the urgent need for a societal reevaluation. It is not enough to oppose abortion; we must actively foster a culture that truly values life in all its stages. This involves embracing and promoting strong family structures, supporting adoption enthusiastically, and empowering local communities to provide comprehensive support to vulnerable children, mothers, and families.
To cultivate a genuinely pro-life society, we must commit to building and reinforcing the structures that encourage life-affirming choices. The restoration of the family as the primary building block of society is not merely an ideal to aspire to; it is a necessity for a thriving future.
Faith Facts
- Clyde and Gwen Antwine celebrated 70 years of marriage rooted in Christian service and missionary work across Europe and the United States.
- The couple met at a youth camp in Texas and built their relationship on shared faith, mission trips, and a commitment to mentoring young Christians.
- They helped establish a healthy church in Zurich, Switzerland, and continued to serve faithfully at Memorial Road Church of Christ in Oklahoma.
The Antwines first met as teenagers at a two-week encampment at Abilene Christian University. Clyde was 15 years old and sold his FFA prize-winning steer for $40 to attend. That is where he first saw Gwen, then 14, and asked to take her picture.
He carried that photograph in his wallet for five years before they reunited at Abilene Christian during his sophomore year. They married six months later.
“The last day of camp, I worked up the courage to ask her if I could take her picture, and she posed. And I put that picture in my wallet. I didn’t even know her name. I just knew she was pretty.”
After Clyde graduated, the couple boarded a boat for Europe in 1959. They served seven years in Zurich, helping to strengthen a young congregation of the Church of Christ. Their work laid a foundation that still bears fruit today.
Later the Antwines served in the German cities of Augsburg and Munich. After nearly two decades overseas, they returned to the United States. Clyde became missionary in residence at Oklahoma Christian University while Gwen served as office manager for The Christian Chronicle.
“Gwen would get you laughing and see the positive side when things got tough, and Clyde, in his quiet voice, would somehow say the exact words you needed to hear to keep you spiritually grounded.”
Their legacy continues through the many students they mentored for mission work. The Antwines never sought recognition. Their only goal was to prepare others for Kingdom service.
Today, Clyde still carries that original photograph of Gwen from their teenage years. Their story stands as a clear testimony of enduring love, steadfast faith, and lifelong commitment to the Lord’s work.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Faith Facts
- Ashley Flynn’s family states she “wanted her life to point people to Jesus.”
- She is remembered as a mother of two who “loved Jesus with her whole heart.”
- The case centers on the tragic loss of a Christian wife and mother whose testimony continues to inspire faith.
The family of the late Ashley Flynn is remembering the slain mother of two as someone who “loved Jesus with her whole heart” after her husband Caleb was found guilty of murdering her as the defendant’s family maintains his innocence.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Faith Facts
- Christians across Puerto Rico are gathering for six days of prayer for families, churches and the island’s future.
- The island is a U.S. territory located in the Caribbean.
- The multi-day prayer initiative reflects a commitment to faith, family and national values.
Christians across Puerto Rico are gathering this week for six days of prayer for families, churches and the future of the island, a U.S. territory in the Caribbean.
Believers are uniting in churches and communities to seek God’s guidance and blessing over their households and the territory’s future.
Participants are lifting up concerns ranging from family stability and spiritual renewal to economic growth and cultural preservation.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
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