Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

During retreats organized by Rachel’s Vineyard, the focus is on healing individuals from the trauma of abortion through spiritual guidance. Father Ben Cameron, a member of the Fathers of Mercy, emphasized that "the real healer is Jesus," noting that participants encounter divine love amid their struggles.

Father Cameron, previously associated with the Archdiocese of Louisville and Our Lady of the Caves Church in Hart County, Kentucky, has expanded his ministry to include national and international missions. He founded a chapter of Rachel’s Vineyard in Kentucky and currently leads Rachel’s Vineyard in Bowling Green.

The retreats involve Christ-centered meditations based on Gospel narratives such as the woman at the well and the raising of Lazarus. These stories allow participants to reflect on their experiences and emotions related to abortion. According to Father Cameron, “People put themselves in the story; they’re interacting with Jesus. They start to make sense of their past and what happened.”

A parishioner from Immaculate Conception Church in Lagrange, Kentucky, who wished to remain anonymous, shared her positive experience at a Rachel’s Vineyard retreat after decades of internal struggle following an abortion at age 21. She described it as a crucial step toward healing.

Father Cameron acknowledged that many women suffer silently post-abortion due to fear of judgment and lack of support. The retreats offer a non-judgmental environment where participants can share their experiences openly.

The retreat process includes addressing feelings such as anger towards those involved in the abortion, which facilitates healing. Participants also attend Mass and have opportunities for reconciliation. A memorial service provides them with a chance to honor their children.

Father Cameron reported significant progress among retreatants during these weekends: “We see great strides in people’s healing during the weekend.”

The anonymous parishioner mentioned finding peace through confession and expressed feeling forgiven after writing a letter to her child asking for forgiveness.

Having found personal healing, she now volunteers at Mary’s Hope, a pregnancy resource center affiliated with her parish, aiming to assist women facing crisis pregnancies: “If we save one child… it would be my baby smiling down on me from heaven saying, ‘You did it, Mom.’”

Father Cameron authored "Healing the Deepest Wounds: A Pastoral Guide to Abortion, Trauma and Grief" as a resource for those supporting individuals affected by abortion-related trauma.

Rachel’s Vineyard of Bowling Green conducts retreats across Western Kentucky, Middle Tennessee, and Northern Alabama. Further details are available on their website or via phone contact.