Franciscan University to Host Abby Johnson for March 25 Talk on Leaving the Abortion Industry and Experiencing God’s Mercy

STEUBENVILLE, OHIO-Franciscan University of Steubenville will welcome pro-life advocate Abby Johnson to campus on Tuesday, March 25-the Feast of the Annunciation-for a public lecture titled "Leaving the Abortion Industry and Experiencing God's Mercy." The talk will begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Pope St. Paul VI Event Center, Christ the Teacher Hall, and is free and open to the public.

Johnson, a former Planned Parenthood clinic director who now speaks nationally about her conversion and commitment to defending life, will share her powerful testimony of transformation, healing, and the mercy of God. Her visit is sponsored by the Young Americans for Freedom (YAF) student chapter at Franciscan University.

"Our Franciscan YAF chapter is so excited to be hosting Abby Johnson this semester," said senior Anna Myron, president. "We truly believe her story of courage and mercy is one that every student should hear. She serves as a reminder to all of us that God is greater than sin and can work all things for his glory."

A faithfully Catholic and unapologetically pro-life institution, Franciscan University has always been committed to upholding the dignity of every human person from conception to natural death. Johnson's witness aligns with the University's mission to form students intellectually, spiritually, and personally to be joyful disciples and courageous defenders of truth in a culture often marked by confusion about the sanctity of life.

The date of Johnson's visit is especially significant. The Feast of the Annunciation commemorates the moment the Angel Gabriel announced to the Blessed Virgin Mary that she would conceive and bear the Son of God. On this solemnity, the Church celebrates the Incarnation-when Jesus Christ took on human flesh in the womb of Mary-affirming the profound dignity and sacredness of life from its very beginning.

In observance of this great feast, the University will also host a Eucharistic Holy Hour at 8:30 p.m. in Christ the King Chapel, immediately following Johnson's talk. The Holy Hour will offer participants an opportunity to pray in thanksgiving for the gift of the Incarnation and to intercede for the protection of all human life.

Click here to view a flyer for the event.