Danielle Inn is on a special mission
Thursday, February 04, 2010
By Elizabeth Moore

Danielle Inn has opened its doors.

A grand opening reception was held recently for the graceful home for unwed, expectant mothers located on 17 acres in Covington. Wide balconies with rocking chairs issue invitations to sit out and inhale fresh air, and neighboring alpaca and horse farms enhance the bucolic atmosphere.

Inside, there are 12 bedrooms that were "adopted" and beautifully decorated by individuals, churches or organizations. The pregnant women who come to Danielle Inn stay for a year, and are provided with room, board, transportation, prenatal and post-delivery care and education, along with parenting and life skills. The inn is a place where the residents have an opportunity to learn of Christ.

Danielle Inn was founded by the Rev. Mark and Brenda Gebhardt through Agape Ministries. At the reception, Mark welcomed all and gave an overview of the ministry. Guest speaker state Rep. Steve Scalise spoke of the value and need of such a place and expressed confidence on how it will help the community. He applauded those who "choose life in such a beautiful setting."

Pianist Fredrick Sanders entertained the guests, who enjoyed a delicious potluck buffet. Among those attending the opening were Right to Life Foundation President Bob Winn and Executive Director Ben Clapper. Also, Mike and Charleen Ecuyer, who lived in the home for six years with their 10 children, all of whom were adopted or are in the process of being adopted.

Agape Ministries board of directors are Noel Vargas, president; Mark Gebhardt, vice president; Marilyn Roberts, secretary; Mike Ecuyer, treasurer; and Andrew Maliskas. Brenda Gebhardt is the executive director of Danielle Inn.

The purpose of Danielle Inn is to minister to pregnant or parenting women in a Christian setting, and the mission is to save babies from abortion. There are plans to open a second home, Mary's Choice, on nine acres near Lacombe. Danielle Inn is in need of sponsors for the residents and volunteers.

For information, visit the Web site at www.danielleinn.org.

Published on NOLA.com

Published in The Times-Picayune Sunday, February 7, 2010

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