List of Ideas for Memorializing the Baby:
Have them:
- Write a poem about or letter to the child.
- Gather items in a small box that represent something significant about the child. For example, a pacifier, diaper pin, baby blanket, calendar page from the month the baby was due, etc. Instruct them to assign the significance to each item, then keep it in a safe place for a designated time (one year is a good length of time), then find a special place to bury it. Have them make sure it is a place they will be able to go to whenever they need to remember the child.
- Hold a memorial service with their post-abortion support group or closest friends and family members. Options are to read the letter or poem; sing a hymn or praise song that represents hope for being reunited with the child someday; pray; and light a candle. The snuffing out of the candle signifies the end of the service.
- Together with their post-abortion support group or with their closest friends and family members, have them locate a peaceful place (park or other secluded area), read their poem or letter and release a balloon for each child they are symbolically releasing into the hands of God.