Julie Baum, supporter relations director of Align Life Ministries, is clear on how the organization, which first opened in 1985 as Susquehanna Valley Pregnancy Services, has come to be called Align Life Ministries. "The short answer is, 'It was God's idea,'" she said.

The long answer is a little more complicated. "First, God taught us the importance of having the word Align in our name," explained Baum, who added, "When you align your heart and mind with Him, life springs forth." She also noted that nearly a decade ago, the organization felt called to partner with other Christ-centered, life-affirming groups and began working with a ministry in Philadelphia, offering information on partnering with churches, engaging with donors, and even helping to obtain an ultrasound bus for one organization. But partnerships were only part of the story. The ministry also offers equipping resources to other organizations. "We were meeting with high school students and teaching them ways to walk in sexual integrity," said Baum, referring to a curriculum for teens and young adults called "Sexuality by Design." The ministry also offers leadership help in the form of president Lisa Hosler's book called "The Unexhausted Leader."

"(Our reach) extended beyond the Susquehanna Valley, so the name Susquehanna Valley Pregnancy Services wasn't going to work much longer," said Baum.

The organization's pregnancy services centers, located in Lebanon, Lancaster, Ephrata, and Columbia, became Align Pregnancy Services. Becca Keretzman, director of the Ephrata location, explained that each center offers a variety of services, such as pregnancy tests, prenatal and parenting classes, a baby boutique, and other services, including ultrasounds at some locations.

Keretzman described the Earn While You Learn program that rewards parents-to-be with Care Cash that can be used in the baby boutique. Those who attend all 15 weeks of classes may choose from large items such as a crib. She added that classes are tailored to clients' needs and may include videos, information on infant care, and prayer. The Gospel is proclaimed in words throughout the program. Parenting classes offer material for parents of children from birth through age 12. Clients may be served in person or virtually.

"Ephrata is unique in that there is not another center close by," said Keretzman, who noted as many as 20 clients a week visit the center. "We see people from the other side of New Holland," she said.

Baum noted that services are also available for those who have terminated a pregnancy. "We have Bible studies and one-on-one conversations," she noted.

During 2020, the ministry became acquainted with more than 500 new area families when the organization's stockpile of diapers, baby wipes, and formula was needed by young families unable to obtain those items. "We offered a week's worth of free baby supplies at a time," explained Baum, who recalled porch pickups and deliveries to families. "What a blessing to reach people spiritually and to meet physical needs."

Information about Align Life Ministries' services may be found at https://alignlifeministries.org.