A Letter from Erin, Founder and Director of Hope Mommies {On Future Leadership}

“Establish the work of our hands upon us,
Yes establish the work of our hands!”
-Psalm 90:17

“We do not know what to do,
but our eyes are on you.”
-2 Chron. 20:12

“This is the Lord’s doing;
it is marvelous in our eyes.”
-Psalm 118:23

In the past five years, these prayers have been repeatedly on my lips as the Founder and Director of Hope Mommies. What began as a tentative, fledgling idea has grown into a national and international ministry with a mission that is zeroing in on two principle needs for those that grieve: Truth and Community.
These are the foundational pillars of Hope Mommies.

The truth of God as Creator, Savior, Judge and Healer. The truth that Heaven is real and is for those who have called on His name. The truth that infants who have died are safe in the arms of God. The truth that the Bible is authoritative, perfect, sufficient, and complete. This is the truth that we hold out to the women and families we serve. And this truth is what is life-giving, hope-filled, helpful, encouraging, and enduring. It is the only thing that will fully heal a grieving heart.

We started as a blog and a few moms on Facebook; we now have a box ministry, Bible study groups, a published book, annual retreats, and a thriving online community with thousands. Women connect in person and online, and share their heartaches, confusion, questions, encouragements, new losses, and new blessings. As unlikely as it seems that you can become close to someone through a screen – they are doing it. And it amazes me every time to see how God can work through any means necessary that is willing to convey the truth of the gospel.

I founded this organization in the midst of mourning my daughter Gwendolyn, and it has been one of the most profound blessings in my life to see it grow beyond me and my story. It is now my joy to turn the Director reins over to Jennifer Parks.

Jennifer became a part of the Hope Mommies community in 2013, not long after the loss of her daughter Paige. She joined the volunteer Leadership Team in 2014 as the Hope Group Coordinator, and has faithfully grown the Bible study groups and leaders. She is a gifted community leader and communicator, is merciful and compassionate, and fully reliant on God’s Word. With the full support of the Board of Directors, Jennie will step into this role officially as of July 1, 2016.

I am thankful for my years as Director, and am ever amazed that God can grow an organization that I worked for from my living room couch while in my pajamas! What He wills, He brings to pass. And it’s been an honor and a joy to see so many women grieve and hope together. I am also thankful that I can continue to serve on the Board of Directors and will assist in the strategic vision and growth of the ministry.

I’m looking forward to seeing how He moves in Hope Mommies under Jennifer’s leadership. To God be the Glory!

Because He lives, I hope,

Erin Cushman

Erin Cushman is the founder and Director of Hope Mommies. Erin is married to Blair and has three children: Gwendolyn, who has been with Jesus since October 20, 2010, Malacai, who is three, and Gemma, born in June 2015. She loves photography, gardening, cooking, reading, playing with her son, and loves especially when all those things combine. You can get to know her more by reading her blog, Our Blessed Hope