This is the first in a 3-part series as we explore what is in our mission. We break down the mission statement, discover the imagery found in our logo that ties to the mission statement, and finally describe how we fulfill the mission by conducting the work that is provided thanks to our financial partners.
Part 1 - “Mission Statement Explained”
WELS Lutherans for Life’s mission is “To Protect a Child's Right to Live and Be Loved by Loving Moms and Dads." In the Lutheran tradition, we answer the question, “What does this mean?”
To Protect:
(Exodus 21:22-23; Esther; Psalm 41:1-2; Psalm 140:1-3; 1 Corinthians 13:6-8a)
These first words of the mission statement are our call to action. They emphasize the commitment to safeguard and ensure the well-being of children—especially pre-born children. It implies a dedication to creating a secure and nurturing environment that shields children from harm, abuse, neglect, and any potential threats to their safety, primarily that of being aborted. An overarching lesson from Esther is that Christians can’t be content with self-preservation while others are facing destruction. We must take action to stand up for the voiceless and the most vulnerable.
A Child's Right to Live:
(Psalm 8; Psalm 68: 4-6; Psalm 119:73; Psalm 139: 13-16; Isaiah 46:3b; Jeremiah 1:5a)
Scripture shows that God values human life above all creation. God created man with inherent dignity and value. We recognize that God is supreme. Because we honor God, we value what He values. We value human life because God values it. This asserts the fundamental biblical and scientific fact that each individual is alive from the moment of conception. This highlights the fundamental right of every child to be born and to have a healthy, fulfilling life. It goes beyond mere existence and implies a commitment to providing children with the necessary conditions for growth, development, and the realization of their full potential. This encompasses spiritual, physical, emotional, and intellectual well-being.
and Be Loved:
(Proverbs 22:6; Deuteronomy 4:9; Deuteronomy 6:7; 2 Corinthians 5:19-20; Ephesians 6:4; 1 Thessalonians 2:7)
This aspect underscores the significance of parental love and support in a child's life. It recognizes the essential role that both mothers and fathers play in nurturing a child's spiritual, emotional, and psychological development. It implies a dedication to promoting and preserving the family unit, with an emphasis on the positive influence of both moms and dads. Love, in this context, extends beyond a mere emotional attachment and includes providing spiritual and physical care, guidance, and positive role modeling.
By Loving Moms and Dads:
(John 3:16; Luke 10:33-35; Matt.25:35-36; Matt 25:40; Mark 12:30-31; Acts 4:32-33; Romans 12:20; Galatians 5:13; Ephesians 6:7; James 1:27; 1 Thessalonians 2:8; 2 Timothy 4:16)
As Christians, we are compelled to love because God loved us first. Jesus tells us in Mark 12:31, “‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” So, we seek ways to impact our world with the gospel. We are a church-related organization operating the pregnancy medical clinic and its programs to impact our clients and their families.
This mission statement shows our commitment to safeguarding a child's basic right to life while ensuring that the child’s spiritual, emotional, and relational needs are met within a supportive family structure—whether in a natural or adoptive family. It underscores the belief that every child should be given life and have the opportunity to get to know their Savior.
Download the "Related Scripture passages" companion document with (almost) all of the passages spelled out here. Watch for the second part of this series to discover the imagery found in our logo that ties to the mission statement.
