Now she goes in search of those who will understand the pain she feels. She comes to us. She comes because our teaching gives meaning to her grief. She comes because we do not deny that abortion kills children. It is only they who do not deny that fact who can adequately deal with its consequences.
Silence only creates an atmosphere in which denial about abortion can flourish.
The challenge for us as priests forgiving a penitent of the sin of abortion is twofold. First, we must save her from despair. We must assure her that sins repented of, confessed, and absolved are truly and completely forgiven. She should not doubt that she is forgiven. She will no more forget about it than will a mother who has lost her child at any other age.