(PROVIDENCE)-Imagine the Samaritan woman standing near the well; her reputation tarnished, self-esteem diminished. Did you ever wonder why she chose a particular time of day to draw water from the well - when no one else would be there to whisper, laugh and act in utter disgust of her? Along comes Jesus, certainly a man on a special mission. He seems to have arrived in town around the same time as the Samaritan woman. While others shun thewoman, Jesus, finds her worthy of love, treats her as one of His Father’s very own children (and she was). Now picture Jesus looking into her eyes, gently asking for a drink. The woman knew He was a Jew and was in awe that He would ask her for a drink of water. Then Jesus speaks these words to the Samaritan woman: “If you only knew what God is offering and who it is that is saying to you: Give me a drink, you would have been the one to ask and He would have given you living water.” (John 4:10).
When a woman finds herself in an unplanned situation, such as an unexpected pregnancy, she may be experiencing feelings similar to Samaritan woman.
Many have turned from those in difficult situations leaving feelings of rejection, loneliness and desperation. Sadly, she may choose abortion to resolve her crisis. If she makes the wrong choice and ends her baby’s life, she will most likely experience, in time, other unexpected emotions. Gabriel Angel volunteers help women in crisis, shows compassion and care, helps provide resources and alternatives that can have a happier beginning for mother and baby.
Consider attending this year’s final Gabriel Project workshop, just prior to Thanksgiving and Advent — open to all who share a common belief in protecting life and caring for those in difficult situations. A two-hour reflection presented by Congregation of Notre Dame Sister Mary Ann Rossi will serve as an introduction to the season ahead; an overview of the Drama Triangle will and Join the Respect Life Office on Saturday, November 17, 2007 at St. Teresa of the Child Jesus, 358 Newport Avenue, Pawtucket, RI from 8:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. The workshop includes:
• Communication Skills: Questions, Feedback & Verbal Challenging
• An Overview of the “The Drama Triangle”
• Jesus and the Samaritan Woman: Jesus replied: “If you only knew what God is offering and who it is that is saying to you: Give me a drink, you would have been the one to ask and he would have given you living water.” (Jn. C4:10) This segment of the workshop, presented by Sister Rossi is designed to be reflective as well as provide opportunities for input, personal reflection and sharing.
To register for the next Gabriel workshop, please call 421-7833 ext.118 or email: rl.outreach@dioceseofprovidence.org
