The proliferation of abortion pills--including at retail pharmacies--is probably the biggest challenge for pro-lifers in post-Roe America.
At a Woodstock, Illinois, pharmacy, the same pharmacist who is dealing the deadly pills complimented Mary on her 40 Days for Life sign.
Mary was puzzled as to why the same man who encouraged her in standing vigil was willing to distribute abortion pills.
"He feels that women deserve help in the cases of rape and incest," Mary explained. "But he does ask God for forgiveness every night for any wrong he may have done that day."
Of course, that's an insufficient and unacceptable justification for killing babies...but hopefully it signifies a spark of conscience that will lead the man to quit making excuses for his role in violence against the most vulnerable.
"God sure has a plan for this man!" Mary exclaimed.
When the campaign ends a week from tomorrow, Mary won't be going anywhere. She's the first leader to launch a year-round 40 Days for Life 365 vigil in front of a pharmacy!
And her team continues to grow. An older gentleman passing by the vigil this spring saw Mary and said to himself, "I'm retired; I can do this." Since then, he's been out almost daily!
Mary also enjoys the support of Evelyn, who comes out to pray at "96 years young."
Evelyn has been praying in front of abortion facilities for the last decade. And if she can do it, so can you:
Sheboygan, Wisconsin
"Clergy support is vital," wrote Sheboygan leader Germaine. "Their personal participation speaks volumes."
Fr. Patrick organized a group of approximately 20 people to pray at Sheboygan's 40 Days for Life vigil. He and his parishioners drove about 40 miles each way to pray in front of Planned Parenthood, which ceased doing abortions this month.
May God answer those prayers by making sure that abortions never resume...or better yet, that Planned Parenthood closes!
Fr. Patrick wasn't the only clergy member to get involved. Fr. Michael joined members of his two local churches when they filled the vigil hours for an entire day.
"We know pastors are extremely busy," Germaine said. "Their willingness to give some of their time to publicly witness and defend innocent human life encourages their flock to get involved in pro-life activities. Thanks to all clergy who [participate]."
Tulcán, Ecuador
Without support from her husband or her family, a woman in deep emotional distress decided to have an abortion.
The campaign team spent days trying to encourage her to choose life...but without success.
Persistence made the difference. The mother finally responded, heard the 40 Days for Life volunteers out as they explained the grisly reality of abortion, and decided not to abort.
"She was given medical exams and an ultrasound," wrote Maria Isabel, the local campaign leader. "By the grace of God--and through every prayer--mom and baby are fine. She said 'yes' to life!"
Bridgeport, Connecticut
The abortion facility landlord in Bridgeport is NOT happy about the 40 Days for Life vigil.
"[He] has confronted us several times and has called the police," wrote Barbara, the local campaign leader.
But Barbara and her team are peaceful and law-abiding, so they have no problems with law enforcement. "The Bridgeport Police are supportive and assist in resolution," she noted.
When Barbara's prayer warriors encounter negativity, it only fuels their passion to keep going out to pray. That fortitude is essential because vigil participants need to park blocks away from the abortion business and walk the rest of the way.
"Some of our dedicated participants go through great difficulty to attend the prayer vigils," Barbara noted. "If we are not out there praying, then who will do it?"
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.
