Beech Tree News Network

Olive Branch Pregnancy Resource Center recently opened in Morgantown with a mission of providing compassionate support, resources, and encouragement to women and families facing pregnancy and parenting challenges. Founded by Butler County resident Hollie Neighbor, the center offers free and confidential pregnancy testing, practical assistance, and referrals to community resources. The center was officially welcomed to the community with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Morgantown Chamber of Commerce in May 2026. Neighbors has been traveling to local churches to share the vision and mission of Olive Branch and recently spoke at Richland Baptist Church, as well as presenting a scholarship sponsored by the church to Evan Coley, a 2026 graduate of Butler County High School. Evan is the daughter of Nick Coley and Robin Coley, both of Morgantown. A requirement to be considered for the scholarship was an essay. Coley's winning essay is included below. Evan is the Neighbors praised all of the essays submitted, saying every applicant had done a wonderful job. However, Coley’s essay best encapsulated the heart of what Olive Branch is all about. 

Said Derrick Benton, pastor at Richland, “as a church, we are called to love and serve our neighbors. Sponsoring a scholarship through Olive Branch was a meaningful way for us to support an organization that ministers to families with compassion, dignity, and practical care. We are honored to help recognize a student whose character and commitment to serving others reflect the values of faith, hope, and love that Olive Branch seeks to share throughout our community.”

Richland Pastor Derrick Benton presents Evan Coley with the Olive Branch Pregnancy Center Scholarship 

Firm in Faith, Gentle in Spirit

As a follower of Christ, I believe that every human life has inherent and God-given value from the very beginning. This belief comes from the understanding that all people are created in the image of God, which gives each life dignity and worth regardless of circumstances. Genesis 1:27 says, “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.” (KJV)  Psalm 139:13-14 says, “For thou hast possessed my reins: Thou hast covered me in my mothers womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: Marvellous are thy works; And that my soul knoweth right well.” (KJV) Because of this, I feel a strong responsibility to stand firm in my conviction that life should be protected. However, I also recognize that holding a strong belief does not mean I should approach others with judgment, hostility, or a lack of compassion. 

One of the most important teachings of Christianity is to love others, even when there is disagreement. Jesus consistently modeled empathy, patience, and understanding toward people from all walks of life. He did not compromise truth, but He also did not treat people harshly or dismiss their struggles. Following that example means that I should not only focus on what I believe, but also on how I treat others while expressing those beliefs. My goal should not be to “win” an argument, but to reflect Christ’s love in the way I communicate.

 Extending empathy starts with listening. People who hold different views on the value of life often do so because of deeply personal experiences, difficult circumstances, or fears about the future. For example, someone might support abortion because they are thinking about situations involving poverty, health risks, or lack of support. Even if I disagree with their conclusions, I can still acknowledge that those concerns are real and deserve compassion. Listening without immediately arguing back helps create a space where respectful conversations can happen. Respect is also shown through how I speak. It’s important to avoid harsh language, assumptions, or stereotypes about others. Instead, I can calmly explain my beliefs, focusing on why I value life rather than attacking someone else’s perspective. Saying “I believe every life has purpose and value” is more productive than criticizing or labeling someone. This approach keeps the conversation focused on principles rather than turning it into a personal conflict. 

At the same time, standing firm means not being afraid to share my convictions honestly. Being respectful does not require me to stay silent or compromise what I believe is true. It simply means expressing those beliefs in a way that is thoughtful and considerate. I can advocate for life while also supporting people who may be facing difficult choices by providing them with encouraging resources, community support, and care for both mothers and children. This is also where organizations such as Olive Branch Pregnancy Center come into play. Women who are struggling in their pregnancy or throughout motherhood can use the resources provided by Olive Branch. Not only can they get the physical items they need like clothing, strollers, diapers, food, or formula; but they can receive counseling from professionals and gain a supportive community of mothers to lean on in their times of struggle. 

Ultimately, I believe it is possible to hold strong convictions and still treat others with kindness and dignity. In fact, doing both is essential to living out my faith authentically. By combining truth with love, I can stand firm in my beliefs about the value of life while also building understanding and respect with those who see things differently.