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Where mercy meets the wounds abortion leaves behind.

This picture, shared by our friend Bennie Gonzales from Santa Fe, truly captured what the streets of Las Cruces were saying on Saturday. He also recorded a short video, which I feel captures the powerful statement we shared with the community.

Before I continue, I want to offer a quick apology. A woman approached me during the rally and asked me to announce the Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat. Unfortunately, in the busyness of the day, I completely forgot. I’m grateful for the reminder, because this ministry is incredibly important.

Standing for life means more than defending the unborn. It also means walking with those who carry the wounds that abortion leaves behind and helping them find healing. That’s exactly what a Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat does.

Today, I want to introduce you to someone very special to our community, Ester Garcia.

Ester is not only a friend but also a former staff member of Guiding Star Women’s Health Center. During her time with us, I personally watched her empower so many of the women who came through our doors. She serves from the heart and has always made herself available to help any woman carrying the burden and pain that abortion can leave behind.

For years, I have seen her compassion and dedication to helping others find healing. Today, she is sharing part of her own story and how a Rachel’s Vineyard retreat changed her life.

Participating in a Rachel's Vineyard weekend over 14 years ago was the start of my healing journey. Being in a space where I could speak openly without judgment allowed me to face the emotions I had carried for a long time—grief, regret, shame, and confusion. Listening to others who had gone through similar experiences reminded me that I was not alone and that healing was possible.

I began to process my feelings in a healthier way. The conversations, scripture-led reflections, and encouragement from others helped me understand myself more deeply and gave me the courage to begin forgiving myself. My faith played a central role in this process. It reminded me that God’s grace and mercy are greater than my past, and that healing is possible when I bring my pain to Him.

Spiritually, this experience helped me reconnect with my faith and trust in God’s love and forgiveness. Unexpectedly, I also reconnected with my child, my son David Michael.  As I prayed, reflected, and shared with others in the group, I began to feel a sense of peace and restoration in my heart. Learning to accept God’s forgiveness helped me begin the process of truly forgiving myself.

Emotionally, I have grown stronger and more hopeful. I have learned that while my past is part of my story, it does not define my future. Through faith, support, and honest reflection, I have found healing, compassion for myself, and a renewed sense of purpose. It is my honor that the Lord has chosen me to journey with those who have also felt the pain from an abortion. This is how I will honor the life of my son's short life by standing side by side with those who courageously come to a Rachel's Vineyard weekend.  If you have been affected by the pain of abortion, I will be waiting for your call.

Gratefully in Christ,

Jessica Sifuentes
President & CEO
Southwest Coalition, Inc.