Pro-lifers in blue states are sometimes skeptical that peaceful prayer can save lives where they live.
"These 40 Days for Life vigils might work in Texas," they say, "but my state is way too progressive for them to work here."
Perhaps that's why they sometimes gasp when they learn that a Planned Parenthood facility just outside Seattle closed after a 40 Days for Life campaign.
Mary led that campaign and has since moved on to hold a vigil in nearby Renton. Maybe God will use her team to close that abortion business too.
After all, nearly half of the abortion facilities to close following a 40 Days for Life vigil have been in abortion-friendly states!
40 Days for Life general counsel Matt Britton recently visited Mary and her team on his swing through Washington.
"It is an extremely well-run and organized vigil with an experienced leader," Matt commented. "There was good turnout, and we gave talks right in front of the building containing the abortion facility."
A zealous security guard interrupted the event to hand out local ordinances, appearing to suggest that the vigil was unlawful.
Maybe he's concerned his employer will be the next abortion center to go out of business.
Tacoma, Washington
The abortion industry has long preyed upon vulnerable people.
That might explain why there are TWO different abortion facilities on the same street in the same rough Tacoma neighborhood.
But vigil participants found reassurance in Matt's message that the 40 Days for Life Institute of Law & Justice exists to support them.
"For many of us, it was an audible confirmation that what we do absolutely makes a difference," reflected Tammy, the local campaign leader.
"[The visit] gave us hope and left us invigorated...to continue to fight the good fight with prayer and petition."
North Seattle, Washington
Pro-lifers can feel lonely in Seattle, so Matt shared examples of other "small campaigns" that have saved babies.
"Matt gave us plenty of encouragement to stay the course," wrote Elizabeth, the local leader.
Fr. Francis de Rosa traveled with Matt to many of the Washington State vigils and built on Matt's words--assuring vigil participants that abortion is a spiritual battle.
God gave volunteers spiritual encouragement as numerous passersby honked their horns in support of the vigil.
"I think the good Lord was saying, 'I see you. Keep going!'" Elizabeth said.
Lynnwood, Washington
Matt was joined in Lynnwood by Jennifer Kendrex, the newest attorney with our Institute of Law & Justice.
Both attorneys addressed the crowd, encouraging prayer warriors to keep their pro-life efforts going in a state with few restrictions on abortion.
After praying in front of Planned Parenthood, the group visited the local pregnancy help center. "We had a wonderful visit and received good turnout," Jennifer reported.
Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and dry them with the towel around his waist.
--John 13:5
God, stir up in us the desire to serve as you serve. Grant us the discernment to understand your will for our lives, to use our gifts for your glory, and to love our neighbor well. When we feel that our efforts are in vain, remind us that we do everything for your glory, not for our own fame or recognition. Amen.
