In this conversation, Jacob Barr, Melody Marshall, and Desirae Johnston discuss the mission of Upstream Collaborative, focusing on family preservation and the importance of community support for expecting mothers. Desirae shares her personal journey from being a pro-choice atheist to finding faith and purpose after her abortion experience. The discussion emphasizes the need for churches to engage relationally with vulnerable populations and provide practical support to families in crisis. The conversation concludes with reflections on God’s provision and the call to sacrificial love within communities.
Takeaways
Melody Marshall is a co-director of Upstream Collaborative, focusing on family preservation.
Desirae Johnston shares her transformative journey from pro-choice to pro-life after her abortion.
The mission of Upstream is to support families and prevent crises before they occur.
Social isolation is a significant predictor of childhood abuse and neglect.
Churches need to engage relationally with families in crisis to provide support.
Desirae’s abortion experience led her to a deeper understanding of life and faith.
The church has a duty to support mothers who choose life.
Practical support includes rides to appointments, meals, and emotional care.
Sacrificial love is essential for building community and supporting vulnerable populations.
God’s provision is evident in Desirae’s life as she transitioned away from her past.
Sound bites
“God sets the lonely in families.”
“We have to be available for that.”
“Love is sacrifice.”
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Backgrounds
02:56 Desirae’s Transformative Journey
05:40 The Mission of Upstream Collaborative
08:47 The Importance of Community Support
11:38 Desirae’s Abortion Experience
14:28 Finding Redemption and Purpose
17:53 The Role of the Church in Supporting Families
20:45 Practical Needs for Expecting Mothers
23:36 Building a Supportive Community
26:48 The Call to Sacrificial Love
29:33 God’s Provision and Faithfulness
32:26 Closing Thoughts and Prayer
Links:
https://upstreamcollab.org/2026-upstream-conference
Printables:
https://www.canva.com/design/DAGUUk1S44s/O1LyvXEbfRz91q_ln4iouA/edit
https://www.canva.com/design/DAGllLPtxW0/dk5PgKmaN7H38Y2hcWEm8g/edit