Reflections of a pregnancy center’s executive director

As the executive director of Options for Women Cornerstone, I am constantly balancing the challenges and blessings that come with this position. Some days, the weight of the responsibility feels overwhelming while other days, the joy of seeing lives transformed through love and compassion lifts me higher than I could have imagined. This work is more than a job; it is a calling where every life encountered brings a unique opportunity to reflect Christ’s love in unexpected ways.

At Cornerstone, our pro-life stance is not political — it is rooted in a deep, unwavering commitment to the sanctity of life in all its forms. We believe that every human life, from conception to natural death, is sacred and made in the image of God. In a world that often values people based on their success or achievements, many of our clients feel that their lives, or the lives they carry, don’t matter because they don’t meet society’s expectations. This is where we step in, offering hope, compassion and the reminder that every person is inherently valuable.

Cornerstone is more than a medical clinic; it is a sanctuary — a place where women and men can find refuge from the pressures of the world. We provide a safe space where they can be heard and seen without judgment. Our team offers time, patience and compassion, helping clients navigate the fear and confusion that often accompanies an unplanned pregnancy. We remind them that they are not alone and that their stories matter.

One of the greatest challenges in this work is helping individuals understand that their child, regardless of the circumstances, is a precious gift, and that they too are worthy of love and respect. We are constantly reminded that life is not a series of mistakes, but a journey of grace. While society may push for quick fixes like abortion, we know that courage comes when a woman chooses life — even when it feels like the hardest option.

There is no greater joy than witnessing a transformation in someone’s life. I am always amazed by the bravery it takes for a woman to choose life. I think of the many precious moments when women see their babies for the first time on an ultrasound, as one nurse beautifully described: “There is nothing that compares to seeing a baby in the womb for the first time — a human person who has not yet walked this earth but is fully alive, a beating heart that is sacred, unique and irreplaceable.” These small yet profound moments remind me why this work is so important.

Choosing life is only the beginning. For many, the path forward is filled with uncertainty and fear. Our work is about more than caring for the baby — it’s also about walking with mothers as they navigate the difficult days ahead. We offer parenting classes, life coaching and material support and encourage them to become the parents they long to be. By providing tools to build confidence and cope with their fears, we help them realize they are not alone, and they can overcome the challenges ahead.

Of course, there are heavy times of sadness and loss as not every story has a happy ending. Some face circumstances that feel insurmountable and, despite our best efforts, we are unable to guide them to a place of hope. These moments are painful, but they also remind us that life is not easy. Our work is never truly finished. Yet we cling to grace, reminding ourselves and our clients that with God healing is always possible and they are worthy of love, no matter their past decisions.

In the end, the work we do is spiritual — it’s about offering love and grace. Every person who walks through our doors has a story worth hearing. I’m deeply grateful for my incredible team of staff and volunteers, each of whom serves with unwavering compassion and commitment. Through this work, our own hearts are renewed and our faith deepened.

As we continue to grow this Christ-centered ministry, we recognize that we cannot do this alone. It requires a community of donors, volunteers and prayer partners united by the mission to champion life. I am immensely thankful for those who support pregnancy resource centers with prayer, time and financial gifts. Together, we help ignite hope, empower young families and change the world — one heart at a time.

Washatka is the executive director of Options for Women Cornerstone and a member of St. Michael in St. Michael.