Today Route 96 bears a new witness - a sea of wooden crosses erected by Junior Youth at Hyndman Ministry Center in their effort to raise awareness to America's greatest tragedy: Abortion. Numbering 3500 in total and arranged in true Arlington fashion, the crosses are a somber display, bearing witness to the number of children that die throughout the nation on a daily basis as a result of abortion.
After viewing a video of Gianna Jesson on YouTube, the youngsters decided to make a stand for Life. 'People don't see the numbers, so they have no idea that this is how many babies that die every day. 'If we can educate people, and we can stop just one abortion from happening, then it's worth the effort,' claim the children. 'We can change the world.'
The Jr. Youth Group quickly pulled older youth along with members of the congregation & community on board, offering each the honor of sponsoring a cross for $5, representing a child who's life was lost in abortion and raising enough money for supplies to construct the crosses and a billboard made by Kenney Signs. The latter displays basic facts about abortion on one side, while expressing God's Love and a number to call for assistance on the reverse.
When asked about their message, Pastor Stevie Leydig commented, 'We'd like to convey God's Grace and Love but at the same time the seriousness Just look at this,' he says, gesturing to the valley of crosses surrounding him, 'This is a dire situation. These are babies.'
Members of the congregation turned out early Friday morning with hammers in hand.
The arrival of the billboard and erection of 3500 crosses has already set pro-life wheels in motion, prompting the creation of a new community outreach, Mantle of Hope.
Mantle of Hope offers prayer and assistance to women in crisis pregnancy, considering abortion. In addition, it offers prayer and assistance to women who may have had or have assisted someone in obtaining an abortion in the past.
Mantle of Hope, like the children of HMC, is founded on the conviction that we can make a difference, handing down a mantle of hope to future generations in the belief that educating people with God's Truth and Love will break down barriers, heal broken hearts, and put an end to abortion.
A valuable lesson can be learned from the wisdom and humility of a child. Their message on abortion: One of Hope. The greatest among the Kingdom of Heaven? Whosoever humbles himself as a child. ( Matthew 18:4 )
Women throughout the area who are in need of assistance can contact Mantle of Hope online, through the Mantle of Hope section of the church's website, www.HyndmanMinistryCenter.org
