Rachel was the second wife of Jacob and the mother of Joseph and Benjamin. He had worked seven years to obtain her hand in marriage. But, at the wedding, Laban, Rachel’s father, placed Leah, her older sister in her place. So Jacob had to work seven more years to gain Rachel as his wife. Jacob loved Rachel. When she died in childbirth she was buried just north of Bethlehem.
She was regarded as the mother of the northern tribes of Israel. When, in 721, the Assyrians conquered and deported the Israelites, Jeremiah depicted Rachel in these words-
“In Ramah is heard the sound of moaning – of bitter weeping, Rachel mourns her children, she refuses to be consoled because her children are no more.”
We use Rachel as a symbol of the church and yes, even God himself, weeping for the millions upon millions of children and those hurt by abortion and miscarriage.
For more information on Post Abortion Healing, click here for the web page or contact: The Respect Life Office, 973-497-4350 or via e-mail: Cheryl.riley@rcan.org
Upcoming Retreats
“Let the Church always be a place of mercy and hope, where everyone is welcomed, loved, and forgiven.” (Pope Francis). The Church can also be a place to heal. We are called to “be merciful like the Father.”
So many are suffering from the effects of abortion. Where can they heal? Where can they feel safe and loved? The Archdiocese of Newark Respect Life Office will be hosting two upcoming Rachel’s Vineyard retreats to heal the wounds from abortion.
Retreat dates are May 14-16, 2021 (English) and April 23-25, 2021 (Spanish).
Contact the Respect Life Office for more details by calling 973-497-4350 (Spanish option 2)
or e-mail Cheryl.riley@rcan.org (English) or elvinedoderaquelinfo@rcan.org (Spanish)
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” (Psalm 147:3)
* All Covid-19 Guidelines will be followed.
