By Jasmine Fountain
God thinks outside the box, that’s just who He is, He is the wisest strategist we could ever consult. When approaching the fight for life, God desires to help us change the narrative surrounding the movement by showing His radical compassion and generosity through us. In light of His gracious heart, He called me to help host a baby shower, and thus The Capital City Baby Shower was born on Saturday, August 19th, 2023. This event not only helped us celebrate life in the community but also gave us a platform to encourage, empower, and equip moms with the resources and tangible items they need as they choose to honor the precious babies growing in their wombs. Over 50 churches, businesses, and organizations partnered with God on this beautiful day to support life.
Some would be tempted to remove God from the conversation or talk about Him less, giving credit to the women and men who came together to bring this event to life- but that would be a grave mistake. Without Him, this event would not have been possible by any means. To go through this process was truly an experience of watching God work. He moved hearts, compelling people who had once said no to say yes. He moved on minds, inspiring people with ideas, and I hope to carry this through. He moved on to churches and organizations, allowing them to partner for a cause after His heart. He opened door after door and was in the smallest details.
Ultimately, with God, we could bless 76 families that showed up that day. 76. Some women confided to us in walks to their cars that they had resisted their boyfriend’s advances to have an abortion and were grateful for the affirmation that came from this event. Some men were surprised they could come to an event and get much of what they needed for their family for free. Some families thanked us for the prayers, encouragement, and hope they received. Each person that attended left with resources from various community organizations and a diaper bag loaded with baby items, a bigger gift such as a car seat, stroller, swing or pack ‘n’ play, and so much more. One vendor commented that a woman she spoke with had a wagon full of baby items that she happily rolled to her car. When people ask where the money donated went as we planned this event, we can joyfully say every penny went to support a baby’s needs.
The Capital City Baby shower boldly proclaimed that there is hope and help for any woman facing an unexpected pregnancy. We showed the Lansing community that true women’s empowerment celebrates the life in her womb and provides her with the community, resources, and love she needs for it to thrive. Because of the success of this event, the second annual Capital City Baby Shower is scheduled for August 17th, 2024, from 12 pm – 2 pm at Sharp Park.
The opinions expressed in this editorial are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the publication, its staff, or its affiliated organizations.
