Every January, Christians in the United States observe Sanctity of Human Life Month. It is a time of prayer and public witness as we reflect on the beautiful, God-given dignity of every human being. For us at the Pregnancy Center of Coshocton (PCC), “Sanctity of Life” is more than a monthly theme — it is a daily encounter.
Moving through this month of reflection, we are filled with anticipation in our new location. In direct response to the call to protect the most vulnerable and reach unreached demographics, we will be focused on limited obstetrical ultrasounds and abortion pill reversal.
Introducing these services will transform our ministry. An ultrasound is an opportunity to see and believe. When a mother sees the flicker of a tiny heart beating on the screen and the delicate movement of a child, the abstract concept of “pregnancy” becomes the concrete reality of “my baby.” Statistics consistently show that a high percentage of women who are at risk for abortion choose life after seeing an ultrasound. By bringing this to PCC, we are providing a window into the womb that allows the “Sanctity of Life” to speak for itself.
Abortion access has moved into the home with easy accessibility to self-administered drugs that will end the life of the child. At PCC, we want to provide women the option of abortion pill reversal, a proven method to save both mother and child. PCC’s focus will begin in local schools, which include the demographic most targeted for access to this egregious path.
Our perspective at PCC is rooted in the “Third Way” — a path that rejects the false choice between the mother and the child. To truly honor the sanctity of life, we must love both. This is why our focus will be integrated into our holistic support system.
Our “Earn While You Learn” program remains the heart of our accompaniment. Through this program, expectant parents earn “Baby Bucks” by participating in lessons on prenatal health, safe sleep and parenting. They then use these bucks in our boutique to “purchase” clothing, diapers, maternity items and other resources.
This model upholds the dignity of the parents, affirming that they are capable and supported. By providing these resources through the generosity of local parishes like Sacred Heart in Coshocton, we show our clients that the Church’s commitment to life does not end at the moment of birth — it is a lifelong commitment to the family.
In our rural community, access to immediate, life-affirming care can be a challenge. We continue to bridge that gap, ensuring that women in Coshocton County can find the truth and the help they need. We walk with parents by providing a safe, non-judgmental space where they are seen as children of God. Whether it is a teenager facing an uncertain future or a couple struggling with financial hardship, we offer the same message: You are not alone, and this life is a gift.
We are so very thankful to Sacred Heart and the diocese for 35 years of unwavering support. As we observe Sanctity of Human Life Month, we invite the faithful to continue joining us in our vision of “cherishing every child from conception and welcoming them into families that thrive.”
- Pray: We ask for your prayers for the men and women who will come through our doors. Pray that the scales fall from their eyes and they see the miracle within.
- Support: Our goals for limited obstetrical ultrasounds and to reach the schools requires specialized training, equipment maintenance and increased volunteer support. We are specifically looking for a volunteer medical director and two volunteers dedicated to working with students in the schools.
- Witness: Share the news that hope is growing in Coshocton. Let the women in your neighborhoods know that we are here to walk with them.
Sanctity of Life is not just a political stance or a theological point; it is found in the soft breath of a newborn and the courageous “yes” of a mother. As we look toward 2026, we are humbled to be the hands and hearts that welcome the weary and lost every day.
If you would like more information about our 2026 focus and how you can practically help, please contact me at directorofpcc@gmail.com or stop by 511 Walnut Street, Coshocton every Friday, 10 a.m. to noon or the first and third Tuesday from 5 to 7 p.m. We would love to give you a tour!
Becky Armstrong is the executive director of the Pregnancy Center of Coshocton.