Sarah LaPierre, MA, OCDS
Director, Project Rachel/Gabriel Project
Catholic Diocese of Arlington
Office of Family, Marriage and Respect Life
Confidential Helpline: 703-841-2504
“I have such a tender heart for anyone carrying this hidden sorrow. Deep down, I believe no one ever truly wants to end up here — stuck in grief, trauma, or regret. It’s heartbreaking. And sadly, so many women have walked through this pain without support, at the very moment they most needed compassion.”
Over 20 years ago, Sarah LaPierre’s life took a turn she never expected. She went into a job interview thinking she was applying for one position, but instead, was offered something completely different—the chance to serve as director of Project Rachel, an after-abortion care ministry. The words spoken by a Project Rachel participant—“God doesn’t choose the qualified; He qualifies the chosen”—took root in her heart. Through her own journey of healing and her service to others, Sarah came to see that God was entrusting her with the mission of helping women find their way back to wholeness.
Under Sarah’s leadership, the ministry has grown significantly. What began with just a few retreats each year has expanded to twice as many, while also branching into new forms of support. Today, the outreach offers group gatherings, a confidential online community, and an annual reunion weekend. Beyond her local work, Sarah serves on national After Abortion Care training teams, contributes to a regional Abortion Recovery Leadership Network, and is an affiliate member of a faith-based psychotherapy association. She also partners with a network of licensed mental health professionals, ensuring participants are connected with therapists who specialize in reproductive loss.
Sarah holds a degree in Business and Finance from the State University of New York at Geneseo, a graduate degree in Pastoral Theology from the Augustine Institute, and certifications in coaching and reproductive loss.