Julie Allyn, a member of Hyde Park Mennonite Fellowship in Boise, Idaho, recently attended the annual conference of the Spiritual Alliance of Communities for Reproductive Dignity. SACReD is a multifaith organization seeking to create a world where “reproductive justice is a lived reality.” They “affirm bodily autonomy and moral agency, celebrate healthy sexuality and advocate for reproductive dignity to support the flourishing of all people and families.”  

In a sermon after she returned, Julie said, “We too are called to speak up and speak out for dignity and compassion in Jesus’ name. Especially when there are those who would speak shame and insults in his name. If we want to follow Jesus’ example, that means being provocative, and being loud about it. And what could be more provocative than a group of Mennonites advocating for abortion access in Idaho?” 

Julie said progressive churches need to center themselves in the fight for reproductive justice. Conservative churches and politicians have made abortion their central issue. We have a duty to make the dissenting voice of Jesus’ compassion just as loud and to make it known that an alternative faith-based perspective on the issue exists.

Communities of faith that recognize the theological basis of bodily autonomy as a human right are invited to explore partnership with SACReD as a means of supporting abortion access in ministry. 

Beth Landis, Boise, Idaho