Most pro-life student groups across the state have an impact on their communities. Some reach hundreds of people, while others speak to the young and old with a unique mission. Some stick to the tried and true methods while others create new methods and think outside of the box. Teens for Truth, a student group in Shelby County in Midwest Ohio, is one such group. Through barn painting, these students are making a positive impact on their community.

As a form of billboard in the agriculture-dominated community, barns are being painted by Teens for Truth with the image of a baby in the womb in the shape of a heart. The purple design is called “breath of life in a beating heart.” (Pictured above.)

Group members spread the word about the project throughout the community to allow different farmers and families to volunteer the use of their buildings for the painting. The barns located along well-traveled roads are ideal in order to reach the highest potential.

The design is intriguing to those who pass by. At first glance, they see a purple heart. At second glance, they might wonder what is really being displayed. Finally, at a closer glance, they see the beautiful image portrayed. The simple, compassionate and accurate image has the potential of reaching those who perhaps would not have been touched otherwise.

Teens for Truth not only paints barns, but they also organize and participate in a number of activities in the area. They pray the rosary on the fourth Monday of every month, which is recorded live for a local radio station, they go to the abortion mill to pray for those who enter, participate in the March for Life in D.C. and distribute tees for National Pro-Life T-Shirt Day.

The group is guided by two scripture passages: Deuteronomy 30:19 (above) and also, John 8:32, “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Their mission is to learn and to teach the truth – God’s truth – on the moral issues that they face in their daily lives. They strive to learn and show others the love God has for each of us.

One member of the group, Carla, said, “The group has affected my life in so many ways. I feel more comfortable talking about abortion and want to show (people) that there is another option.”

Teens for Truth meets on the last Sunday of every month. “It is in these meetings that we pray and discuss life issues,” said Kim Poeppelman, a leader of the group. If you are interested in learning more about Teens for Truth or getting involved, click here.

Posted by Erin Cain, 6/8/11