Julia Black´s film My Foetus is designed to ignite debate about an important contemporary issue. Some have expressed concern that this controversial documentary may further traumatise those in our community already wounded by abortion. It is likely that there will be increased discussion of abortion following the screening of My Foetus. While we welcome thoughtful discussion about abortion, the graphic images of foetal remains may be very confronting for those suffering after an abortion experience. Viewers will be witnessing the destruction of one of our bothers or sisters, a vulnerable member of our human family.

We need to be sensitive to the fact that many women are left grieving after abortion. Symptoms of post-abortion grief may include: depression, eating and sleeping disorders, flashbacks, nightmares, loss of self-esteem, emotional numbness and personality changes. It is important that if this film stirs up these emotions, those affected know they are not alone, and that there is help and healing available for them.

Compassionate, trained counsellors are available to provide help to any woman or man who has struggled or is struggling with the emotional or spiritual pain of an abortion. The fear of condemnation and rejection, the memories of pain and confusion can be transformed and replaced by peace and reconciliation.

The discussion following this film may provide opportunities to raise awareness of the support available to pregnant girls and women. We should remember that Australia has one of the highest teenage pregnancy rates in the world. Many women feel compelled to “choose’ abortion out of a lack of emotional and practical resources and alternatives. There are reports of women who have been “sold’ abortion as a means to get on with their lives—only to find that they simply cannot get on with their lives.

It is time to work within our community to raise awareness of the deep spiritual wounds left by abortion. It is time to provide alternatives for women that acknowledge and promote the rights of their unborn children.

Project Rachel is able to provide confidential information and referrals for those looking for post-abortion counselling or pregnancy support. Call Julie Kelly from Project Rachel on (02) 9440 7980 or Desley Creedy, a Holistic Counsellor, on (02) 9450 0204.

Bishop Anthony Fisher OP
Episcopal Vicar for Life and Health
6 August 2004