Facing an unexpected pregnancy as a teenager is never easy. It can bring fear, shame, isolation, and uncertainty about the future. But teen moms are not alone—and they are not without hope. With the right support system, encouragement, and access to meaningful resources, young mothers can thrive, and so can their babies.
For churches and organizations like WELS Lutherans for Life, this is a powerful opportunity to walk alongside young women with love, compassion, and truth. Through both spiritual care and practical support—like that offered at APS Medical, the medical pregnancy center operated by WELS Lutherans for Life—we can help teen moms face the future with courage and dignity.
1. The Courage of a Teen Mom
Choosing life as a teenager is a bold and selfless decision. It may mean sacrificing personal plans, facing criticism, or navigating parenthood while still growing up yourself. Teen moms need to hear loud and clear:
“You are brave. You are capable. You are not alone.”
While the world may judge or dismiss them, the Church is called to embrace them—without judgment, with the love of Christ, and with a readiness to help in real, tangible ways.
2. How Churches Can Walk with Young Mothers
Local churches are often the first place young moms turn when they're looking for hope or healing. Here's how congregations can make a lasting impact:
Offer Practical Support:
- Host donation drives for diapers, baby clothes, and supplies
- Create a support group or mentorship program for young moms
- Provide childcare during worship services or Bible studies
Be a Place of Grace:
- Encourage open conversations about forgiveness, grace, and God’s plan for every life
- Avoid shaming language and replace it with encouragement and compassion
- Publicly affirm your church’s commitment to supporting life at all stages
Share God’s Promises:
- Remind young moms that they and their child are created, loved, and cherished by God
- Provide devotional materials, spiritual counseling, and mentoring
- Celebrate milestones in the mother’s and child’s journey together
3. The Role of WELS Lutherans for Life
WELS Lutherans for Life and medical pregnancy centers are uniquely equipped to care for young moms by offering both life-affirming medical services and Christ-centered guidance.
Services Include:
- Free pregnancy testing and ultrasounds
- STI testing and treatment
- Parenting education classes
- Referrals for housing, medical care, and material assistance
- After-abortion recovery support, for those who need healing from a past decision
All of these services are offered in a way that protects life, upholds the sanctity of motherhood, and reflects the compassion of Christ.
When local churches and their members partner with these centers, they can reach more young moms, meeting both their physical and spiritual need, making a deeper impact.
4. Why It Matters: A Church That Welcomes Life Welcomes Christ
When a church supports a teen mom, it doesn’t just support one life—it supports two. And in many cases, it becomes a beacon of light for families, friends, and communities watching from the outside.
Jesus said, “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me.” (Mark 9:37)
By welcoming and equipping young mothers, we live out our pro-life values not just in principle, but in practice.
Final Thoughts: Walk with Courage. Stand with Grace.
To every teen mom reading this: you are not alone. There are people ready to help you, walk with you, and remind you of your strength and God’s faithfulness.
To every church and Christian who wonders how to make a difference: this is your moment. Stand up for life, not only in words but in deeds. Through the work of WELS Lutherans for Life, medical pregnancy centers, and compassionate church communities, we can be the hands and feet of Christ to those who need it most.
Together, we can build a culture of life, hope, and grace—one courageous young mother at a time.
To learn more about the work WELS Lutherans for Life is doing in the community, visit our website Alife2.com.
