DEAR ABBY: I am a gospel minister, and members of the congregation are divided over whether to hold a baby shower for an unwed mother who is a member of the congregation. I have been told that it "is just not done." The expectant mother has made it right by repenting and asking for prayer.
Is there any rule of etiquette that prohibits having a baby shower for an unwed mother?
I want to help the young woman because the long road ahead will be difficult. But I also want to keep the congregation from dividing over the matter. -- MINISTER IN GEORGIA
DEAR MINISTER: There is no rule of etiquette that prohibits an unwed mother from being given a shower. And because of her unmarried status, she is going to need all the help she can get. Babies are expensive.
Since she repented, perhaps you should remind your flock of:
1. The Golden Rule. (Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.)
2. Judge not lest ye be judged. And ...
3. Let he (or she) who is without sin cast the first stone.
Your work is cut out for you, because your congregation seems to have forgotten a principle of their religion: Love one another.