2024 Conference Video Previews
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Conference Keynote Sessions
Join us for the opening keynote where Sydna Massé introduces her updated book, Her Choice to Heal: Finding Spiritual & Emotional Peace After Abortion – Post-Roe Edition. Sydna highlights key changes, including insights on microchimerism, breast cancer, and the removal of outdated statistics. Sydna also discusses the challenges of gathering accurate abortion data, the trauma of medication abortion (which includes helpful information for clients entitled: Information for the Recently Post-Abortive Person) and signs of unhealthy recovery programs.
Find detailed notes in the downloadable 2024 Conference Manual, pp. 7-21 featured below the keynote videos.
Sydna Massé and Jessica Deese, Executive Director of Coastal Choices Women’s Clinic, discuss building a pregnancy center ministry for abortion-vulnerable men, including those affected by abortion. Sydna shares her son’s personal journey through an unexpected pregnancy, while Jessica highlights their clinic’s men’s ministry, supporting men facing STI and abortion-related challenges. This keynote equips you to engage and support men in their healing journeys.
Find detailed notes in the downloadable 2024 Conference Manual, pp. 108-113 featured below the keynote videos.
Download the
Male Influencer Chart:
Male Influencer Chart
This keynote presents an interactive discussion during our Question-and-Answer session that include the following topics:
How do you know when to let a person go from your team and what is that process legally, emotionally and spiritually?
How do you choose good board members?
How do I de-stress my volunteers?
What are the benefits of regular “in-service” trainings for your team?
What are the signs of sexual trafficking and how do we respond?
What is the best way to introduce Jesus to a client?
This keynote discusses a significant pro-life issue sparked by a 2024 Alabama Supreme Court decision that recognizes IVF embryos in cryogenic storage as “children.” John, and Marlene Strege, alongside their daughter Hannah, share their profound journey through frozen embryo adoption, which began with a simple yet pivotal question from Marlene, “Can frozen embryos be adopted?” Their answer led to Hannah’s birth, making her the first human symbol against embryonic stem cell research, a science threatening countless frozen embryos. The Strege family’s story, which has touched stages from Focus on the Family to the halls of Congress, the Supreme Court, and the White House, highlights the intersections of faith, family, science, and politics. Also included is a discussion on how pregnancy centers can help with the rescue of millions of embryos locked in frozen orphanages.
Sydna Massé delves into the biological impact of abortion trauma, discussing “microchimerism” and “epigenetics,” and why women often can’t forget the children lost to abortion. She shares her personal story of uncovering her ancestor’s abortion involvement and its effect on her. Sydna also highlights how this trauma shows up as depression, anxiety, and chronic pain, often passing through generations and affecting family dynamics. She concludes with practical exercises to help clients address inherited trauma and break the cycle.
Find detailed notes in the downloadable 2024 Conference Manual, pp. 186-205 featured below the keynote videos.
In this powerful closing session, Sydna Massé shares her personal journey through the grief and discouragement that can come from working with individuals who choose abortion. She explores “Secondary Abortion PTSD” and its impact on those in pregnancy center and abortion recovery ministries. Drawing from her experiences, Sydna offers insights on processing this grief and finding comfort in God’s grace. She also provides practical guidance on honoring the lives of lost children, offering a path to healing and continued service. Detailed notes are in the 2024 Conference Manual, pp. 249-259.
Download the
Memorial Service Program:
Memorial Service Program
Download the Conference Notebook: 2024 Conference Notebook
Conference Workshop Sessions
Sydna Massé addresses the often-overlooked realm of spiritual warfare within pregnancy center and abortion recovery ministry in this workshop. Drawing inspiration from the timeless wisdom found in Galatians 5, Sydna will illuminate the significance of the “Fruits of the Spirit” in discerning potential threats to your vital work. Through insightful analysis and practical guidance, she will empower the audience to recognize and address these challenges with Godly clarity and confidence.
Sydna will shed light on the subtle yet formidable presence of the Jezebel Persona, which may infiltrate the hearts of board members, staff, and volunteers within ministries. By identifying and understanding this “not-Godly” influence, you will be equipped to safeguard the integrity of your mission and foster a culture of spiritual resilience.
Find detailed notes in the downloadable 2024 Conference Manual, pp. 35-53 featured below the keynote videos.
Part of the Working with the Abortion-Vulnerable workshop track.
Abortion’s impact resonates beyond the women directly involved, affecting family members, and loved ones in profound ways. This workshop delves into the often-unspoken grief experienced by fathers, grandparents, siblings, and others touched by the decision. This includes a discussion of the tapestry of emotions that many endure that are frequently undefined and unaddressed. Through insightful discussions and guidance, Karen Fifer will provide strategies for offering support and creating spaces for healing conversations. Join us to learn how to minister effectively to those who may feel isolated in their experiences with abortion.
Find detailed notes in the downloadable 2024 Conference Manual, pp. 24-35 featured below the keynote videos.
Abortion can often cast a long shadow on future marital intimacy. In this session, Karen Fifer will examine the ripple effects of abortion on marital relationships. Key areas of focus in this comprehensive discussion encompass: meticulously pinpointing and gaining a deeper understanding of the signs and symptoms of post-abortion sexual dysfunction, delving into detailed personal narratives of individuals who’ve embarked on a journey and achieved a sense of regained wholeness, closely examining the profound and often understated impact such experiences can have on husbands and partners, and thoughtfully charting out the nuanced journey towards rejuvenating and restoring the intimate aspects of marriage to their full potential.
Find detailed notes in the downloadable 2024 Conference Manual, pp. 60-81 featured below the keynote videos.
Part of the Post-Abortive workshop track.
This workshop is designed to equip pregnancy center team members working with individuals considering abortion. Sydna Massé provides a balanced approach to discussing the pros and cons of abortion, addressing common post-abortion issues and the trauma linked to both medication and surgical procedures. You’ll explore the lifecycle of an abortion decision, the emotional impact of ultrasounds, and how to address past abortion experiences when clients are considering another. Additional topics include abortion anesthesia, pain management, and transitioning clients into abortion recovery programs. This workshop offers valuable insights into the motivations behind abortion decisions and guidance on supporting life-affirming choices.
Find detailed notes in the downloadable 2024 Conference Manual, pp. 82-101 featured below the keynote videos.
Part of the Working with the Abortion-Vulnerable workshop track.
Abortion Pro & Con Activity and Common Issues of Post-Abrtive Women Handouts Available Here: Handouts
Jessica Deece, Executive Director of Coastal Choices in Deland, FL, features a new model for holistic ministry in this enlightening workshop with the transformative model of Wrap-Around Care. This innovative approach harmonizes medical and social services, offering holistic support to clients navigating pregnancy decisions.
Discover how the Wrap-Around Care Model enables centers to provide comprehensive support to both abortion-minded and abortion-determined clients without overwhelming the center’s capacities. Gain insights into implementing this model seamlessly within your organization and fostering a nurturing environment for clients in need.
Find detailed notes in the downloadable 2024 Conference Manual, pp. 54-57 featured below the keynote videos.
Part of the Pregnancy Center Ministry Leadership workshop track.
Join us for Part 2 of the Wrap-Around Ministry Model workshop, where we delve into essential elements for comprehensive support. These elements include:
- Baby Boutique and Subscription Boxes: Learn how to create a welcoming Baby Boutique offering vital resources for expectant parents. Explore implementing Subscription Box services tailored to each stage of pregnancy and early parenthood for long-term engagement.
- Thrive-Life Coaching: Discover transformative coaching principles empowering personal growth. Explore integrating coaching into pregnancy support services to enhance emotional resilience.
- Onsite/Offsite Mentoring: Gain insights into building supportive relationships, navigating coordination, and integrating spiritual care.
- Individualized Care Plans: Recognize the importance of tailored support services for each client while optimizing resources.
- Implementing Comprehensive Support: Explore effective staffing and organizational strategies for seamless integration.
Do not miss this opportunity to enhance your center’s impact. Join us to empower individuals and families on their pregnancy journey.
Find detailed notes in the downloadable 2024 Conference Manual, pp.102-107 featured below the keynote videos.
Join Karen Fifer as she delves into the comprehensive resources of offering retreats to two demographics – those who are post-abortive and those who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss. Discover how to seamlessly integrate Ramah International’s Her Choice to Heal and Weathering the Storm programs, exploring topics like:
- Initial attendee interviews
- Effective promotion strategies
- Essential administrative forms
- Detailed schedules and meal plans
- Supply lists and teaching guides
- Recovery guidelines and retreat goals
- Identifying hidden agendas
- Facilitating meaningful discussions
- Detailed healing activities
- Scripture integration
This guide ensures a seamless retreat experience, providing newfound confidence for both seasoned facilitators and newcomers to the format. Join us and unlock the full potential of your retreat leadership journey.
Find detailed notes in the downloadable 2024 Conference Manual, pp. 124-138 featured below the keynote videos.
Part of the Post-Abortive Ministry workshop track.
Sydna Massé and Mellisa Rodriguez from Coastal Choices in Deland, FL explore how culture—through beliefs, traditions, and societal norms—deeply influences abortion decisions, particularly in former european and Latino families. They examine how cultural views on sexuality and religion shape individual choices and discuss the ethical considerations within different cultural contexts. The session also addresses the impact of stigma, societal pressures, and community expectations, as well as how race, ethnicity, and socio-economic status intersect with abortion experiences. Join this insightful discussion to better understand how culture shapes these complex decisions and learn how to effectively support clients in their journey.
Find detailed notes in the downloadable 2024 Conference Manual, pp. 139-150 featured below the keynote videos.
Part of the Working with the Abortion-Vulnerable workshop track.
Abortion’s impact resonates beyond the women directly involved, affecting family members, and loved ones in profound ways. This workshop delves into the often-unspoken grief experienced by fathers, grandparents, siblings, and others touched by the decision. This includes a discussion of the tapestry of emotions that many endure that are frequently undefined and unaddressed. Through insightful discussions and guidance, Karen Fifer will provide strategies for offering support and creating spaces for healing conversations. Join us to learn how to minister effectively to those who may feel isolated in their experiences with abortion.
Find detailed notes in the downloadable 2024 Conference Manual, pp. 24-34 featured below the keynote videos.
Part of the Post-Abortive Ministry workshop track.
This session introduces you to the personal story of Hannah Strege who is the very first frozen embryo adopted after spending 2.9 years in cryogenitic storage. She challenges the common misconceptions that adoption is a secondary choice for families seeking to expand and examines the role of pregnancy centers in encouraging adoption among clients and donors. It will delve into the diverse landscape of adoption and encouraging embryo adoption in your local community.
In today’s digital world, ministries have new ways to connect and support their communities online. Join Sydna Massé in this workshop as she highlights how your pregnancy center or abortion recovery efforts can benefit from featuring HerChoicetoHeal.com on ministry websites and during speaking engagements. Sydna takes you on a tour of the site, showcasing its features and how it can strengthen your ministry. She also introduces the upcoming Ramah Institute, launching in January 2025, which will provide tools and training for pre- and post-abortion work.
Find detailed notes in the downloadable 2024 Conference Manual, pp. 212-220 featured below the keynote videos.
Part of the Post-Abortive Ministry workshop track.
In pregnancy centers, it can be rare for women to openly express thoughts of abortion, yet even those committed to carrying to term may encounter unforeseen challenges that make abortion seem like an option. Karen Fifer introduces the concept of levels of abortion vulnerability (demographics that can make them more likely to have an abortion), highlighting the need to approach every client with the understanding that they could face significant external pressures or difficult prenatal diagnoses down the road. In this session, participants will learn strategies to support and empower clients, helping them build resilience against external influences and pressures that may surface after leaving the center.
Find detailed notes in the downloadable 2024 Conference Manual, pp. 221-240 featured below the keynote videos.
Part of the Working with the Abortion-Vulnerable workshop track.
Download the Abortion Vulnerable Critera Handout: Abortion Vulnerable Critera Handout
Join Jessica Deese in this Leadership Workshop for pregnancy center and abortion recovery ministries. Discover holistic strategies for personnel management, board dynamics, and leadership succession with faith-based guidance. Select staff who align with mission values, handle transitions gracefully, and foster growth and accountability. Address gossip with trust and humility, navigate adversity with unity and faith. Harmonize board dynamics and enhance effectiveness through clarity and humility. Prepare for the future by identifying and nurturing emerging leaders rooted in faith. Strengthen your ministry’s foundation and ensure a flourishing future with purposeful succession planning grounded in divine guidance.
Find detailed notes in the downloadable 2024 Conference Manual, pp. 241-248 featured below the keynote videos.
Part of the Pregnancy Center Ministry Leadership workshop track.
BONUS CONTENT!
In part-one of this topic, Melissa Horton skillfully facilitates specific information related to beginning an abortion recovery ministry effort. She touches on a myriad of essential topics. These span from the intricate journey of emotional healing — encompassing stages like denial, shame, guilt, anger, and the transformative paths to forgiveness and mourning — to the more logistical elements like effective ministry administration. You will also gain insights into the creation and implementation of robust policies and procedures, engaging healing activities, strategic advertising methodologies aimed at reaching and resonating with the hearts of those affected, and the pivotal strategies for ensuring a thriving and impactful ongoing ministry even after the initial phases of healing.
Detailed notes are available in the Abortion Recovery Ministry Handbook available at:
Purchase – https://herchoicetoheal.com/product/abortion-recovery-ministry-handbook/
Download – https://herchoicetoheal.com/product/abortion-recovery-ministry-handbook-ebook/
Part of the Post-Abortive Ministry series.
BONUS CONTENT!
In part-two of this topic, Melissa Horton
Melissa Horton continues discussing specific information related to beginning an abortion recovery ministry effort. She touches on a myriad of essential topics. These span from the intricate journey of emotional healing — encompassing stages like denial, shame, guilt, anger, and the transformative paths to forgiveness and mourning — to the more logistical elements like effective ministry administration. You will also gain insights into the creation and implementation of robust policies and procedures, engaging healing activities, strategic advertising methodologies aimed at reaching and resonating with the hearts of those affected, and the pivotal strategies for ensuring a thriving and impactful ongoing ministry even after the initial phases of healing.
Detailed notes are available in the Abortion Recovery Ministry Handbook available at:
Purchase – https://herchoicetoheal.com/product/abortion-recovery-ministry-handbook/
Download – https://herchoicetoheal.com/product/abortion-recovery-ministry-handbook-ebook/
Part of the Post-Abortive Ministry series.
Discover how God’s provision shapes our mission during this workshop. Embrace your unique traits as strengths in advocating for our cause. Jessica Deese and Leah Shrum, Executive Director of Options for Women in Cape Girardeau, MO, explore effective fund-raising planning, from choosing dates and venues, the impactful use of client testimonials on video, online registration and much more. Join us to empower your center with strategies that blend faith, community, and practical wisdom, creating a lasting impact on those we serve.
Find detailed notes in the downloadable 2024 Conference Manual, pp. 151-155 featured below the keynote videos.
Part of the Pregnancy Center Ministry Leadership workshop track.
BONUS CONTENT!
Melissa Horton will discuss the managing of anger after abortion during this session, delving deep into its intricate and often misunderstood emotional aftermath. Drawing from her extensive knowledge and experience, she will explore the different facets of anger, its nuanced interactions with various defense mechanisms, and the most effective techniques currently known to release and manage this deeply-rooted and potent emotion. Beyond this, the session places a significant emphasis on the healing journey, presenting a plethora of activities specifically tailored to release pent-up anger. These tools aim to assist women in breaking the pervasive strongholds of anger, ultimately leading them towards fostering healthier, more constructive emotional responses.
Part of the Post-Abortive Ministry series.
BONUS CONTENT!
Scripture underscores the profound implications of sexual relationships outside of marriage. These encounters often lead to the formation of deep “soul ties.” Join Sydna Massé as she delves into her personal journey of breaking these spiritual connections, recounting her experiences from her abortion recovery class and her candid conversations with her husband, Tom. This workshop will provide attendees with a comprehensive healing roadmap and will also discuss the integration of this vital step into the broader abortion recovery process. Attendees will leave empowered with knowledge and tools to address these profound connections.
Please review Module 8 on HerChoicetoHeal.com for the information and notes covered in this workshop.
Conference Devotionals
Speaker Introductions