Story #1: Honoring the Legacy
This story is adapted from EFL founder, John Leininger's, letter, originally published in the “Lifelines” (WPC’s original newsletter) 10th Anniversary Newsletter.
In 1980, a small meeting at Central Baptist Church became the starting point of a ministry that would impact thousands of lives.
Members of the community were invited to hear a presentation from a guest speaker who would share how Christians should respond to the growing crisis of unexpected pregnancies. As he spoke, he reminded those present of a truth many had learned as children: life begins at conception. For those in the room, that belief carried weight. If life was sacred from its earliest moment, then it was worth protecting and so were the women carrying it.
Those attending learned that many women facing difficult pregnancies were overwhelmed and often alone. Financial pressures, fear of rejection, and uncertain futures weighed heavily on them. Too often, they were offered quick solutions but little support, incomplete information but no lasting care.
Among those listening that evening were John and Dianne Leininger and Bill and Sandy Norman. Though they represented different congregations, they were united by a shared conviction. They could not simply feel concerned—they needed to respond.
The spirit in the room was not one of anger or argument. It was one of compassion. Scripture shaped their thinking: they were called to be humble and gentle, patient and loving. If they stepped forward, their work would have to reflect mercy.
Within days, another meeting was organized. People from diverse church backgrounds gathered again, this time ready to move beyond concern and into action. There was no polished strategy or major funding, only a deep sense of responsibility and a willingness to trust God for what came next.
From those meetings, Education for Life dba Women’s Pregnancy Center was formed.
It began as a modest Christian outreach, determined to offer truthful information, practical assistance, compassionate care, and spiritual guidance to women facing unplanned pregnancies. Volunteers offered their time. Space was secured. Plans were made in prayer. What started small was sustained by faith and steady commitment.
Over the years, that simple beginning grew beyond anything those first attendees could have imagined. By God’s grace, the center expanded into one of the nation’s largest ministries of its kind. Dedicated staff and volunteers carried forward the same heart that marked its origin—serving women without judgment, offering help without hesitation, and valuing every life entrusted to their care through divine appointments.
Forty-five years later, the same mission continues. What began in one church meeting still lives on in every appointment kept, every prayer offered, every life affirmed, and every woman reminded that she is not alone.
As we honor this legacy and reach beyond, our goal is to welcome 45 new monthly donors. Your monthly gift ensures that the Center can continue offering truth, compassion, and practical care to women navigating unexpected pregnancies.
Will you be one of the 45 who step forward today?
Other ways to honor the legacy:
Pray for women and families facing unexpected pregnancies
Share this story with a friend or on social media
Volunteer your time or talents to support the ministry
Stay tuned! Over the next 45 days, we’ll share more stories of lives touched and lives saved.
