BRISBANE mother of eight Belinda Goodwin has good reasons for attending the Rally For Life each year, but one stands out.
“By our public witness we can open the eyes of society to look at the blessing of children … we need to open their eyes to the wonder of what God has given us,” she said.
As a medical doctor, Mrs Goodwin is no doubt aware more than most of this miracle.
“We all need to come out of our comfort zones and say speaking out against abortion is right,” she said.
Mrs Goodwin said this year’s Rally For Life, being held on Saturday, February 22, in Queens Park in Brisbane’s CBD, was “a brilliant way to kick off 2014”.
“It’s extremely important to be a voice in the heart of Brisbane … to make the wider community aware of pro-life issues,” she said.
“It’s a visual, a witness to people walking past.
“It’s not good enough to just talk about it – we must show what we believe; we can change society through this sort of example.”
Mrs Goodwin, one of the founding members of the rally which started in 2008 as the Respect for Women Rally, said the gathering also gave a sense of community and common purpose to pro-life supporters.
“Not only do we get to hear public speakers, but we also get to meet like-minded people so the movement can become more united in a common vision,” she said.
“It brings together all the different pro-life elements, from prayer to counselling to political activism.
“The rally is family friendly and children are always welcome.
“Being present also changes the children as people.
“It’s an influence which goes into their teen years and later life.”
The Rally For Life, organised by Cherish Life Queensland, will open with Roby Curtis and Band at 1.15pm followed at 2pm by presentations.
Speakers are Tim Rushbrook, who has a son with Down syndrome, Right to Life Australia president Margaret Tighe and Australian Christian Lobby Queensland director Wendy Francis.
Mrs Goodwin said “to people considering coming along I would say this is important for families at whatever stage of life”.
“Your presence is vital,” she said.
“Come along and you’ll feel the energy of being part of a community with a common goal.”
