Thoughts for March 22, 2010

Dear PASS Friends for Life:

Historically, U. S. governments - federal, state, county, township, and cities have recognized the benefits faith-based ministries provide. Tax codes have permitted a percentage of contributions to faith-based ministries to be tax deductible affirming this understood benefit to citizens and the state. However, that seems to be changing as the Health Care Bill and, more importantly, the way the bill was passed confirms the church and state are at odds.

Non-profit groups, crisis pregnancy centers, adoption agencies, shelters, meal centers, healing and teaching ministries, and churches are experiencing the changes. From the beginning of time, to the fall of the Roman Empire to contemporary history, when governments get big, the more difficult it becomes for non-profits to minister. Governments have always been intent on controlling its people and this is certainly the case in the matter of abortion and life decisions.

However, there is good news. History has also proven that no matter how governments have tried to control personal-life decisions, no government has ever been able to eliminate people from communicating truth through personal relationships.

Yes, there is sadness and resentment at both the bill and the way the bill was passed. But know that PASS does things governments cannot do--create life-affirming relationships and share truth. What PASS does best is one-on-one ministry to hurting women and men in crisis. Regardless of what has occurred in Washington this past week of which there is much disappointment, PASS will continue to minister one heart, one soul, one life at a time. At PASS we minister publicly and privately. It is what we do and will continue to do to save lives.

Sincerely,

Rick Ligthart, President
PASS network of life-affirming care
rick@passhelps.org