A group of women, health professionals, and Catholic Church leaders in Indonesia recently launched an online seminar to bring into light the issue of abortion in the country and to train counselors who can provide help to women.
Father Aristanto from the Indonesian Bishops of Conference’s Family Commission said the workshop was part of the local Church’s commitment “to imitate Jesus’ way of life … to save other’s life.”
He said the commitment to protect life is “not only by teachings” but also through “physical and emotional approaches.”
Angela Abidin, a medical practitioner and a pro-life activist, told the forum that although abortion is illegal in the country, “underground abortions” are being practiced.
The online seminar, which was organized by the Communication Forum of Life Protectors (FPPK), was attended by professionals who want to become consultants for women intending to terminate a pregnancy.
“With the many problems and challenges that women with unwanted pregnancies face, trained counselors are extremely necessary,” said Professor Elisabeth Kristi Poerwandari.
“Our presence should help the woman find the best solution and save the life of the fetus,” said Theresia Indira Shanti, a professor of psychology at the University of Indonesia.
“The two-day workshop is important to train all potential volunteers who will have to take care of women who want to have an abortion,” said Felix Gunawan, FPPK head.
The organization is made up of secular activists, mostly Catholic, who are committed to saving the lives of unwanted children.
Founded in Jakarta in 1998, the group over the years has intensified coordination between 200 orphanages across Indonesia and encouraged nuns and activists to host mothers and children.
