Friday, October 31, 2008
Ground Zero Report - Day 38 - Part 2 [10.31]
Today, Friday, I felt like I was standing at the foot of the cross. For most of the hour that I was at the vigil, I stood all by myself and held a sign. David and another man walked back and forth with their signs, but there I stood, alone. People walked by me and shook their heads, some muttering things I couldn't hear. Very few looked me in the eye. I watched as teenage girls, most with boyfriends, walked into the clinic and others walked out. My heart broke as I watched one girl come out alone, face ashen. I prayed for Doris as she watched for women with whom she could speak before they walked into the clinic, prayed for courage, wisdom and protection for her. A couple of times as young girls walked into 65 Bank, Doris looked across the street in my direction and we shared knowing looks. I watched as people chatted with the security guard and mocked the people who were walking around the block praying the rosary. I thought of Jesus on the cross - alone, mocked, people passing by and shaking their heads, treating Him as something to be despised. For a brief moment, I felt like I knew just a tiny glimpse of Jesus' pain. But Sunday's comin', like Fr. Frank Pavone has reminded us. Sunday's comin'. We need to be people of hope, and not ever stop praying for the end to abortion. Our work isn't done after 40 Days for Life. It has just begun. - Sue A.
Ground Zero Report - Day 38 [10.31]
Today was a very busy day at the mill. Lots to tell you. We think there may have been another save....Doris talked to a couple who were lingering around for a long time as do most people before going in for their abortions. I asked Doris to email you the story! But I believe there was a live saved! :)
There was a guy this morning 21 years old smoking outside near the security guard, his wife was upstairs getting prepped for her abortion and the young man became very angry that we were outside. He initially started by talking to the security guard really loudly talking about how we are making women feel guilty and that it's better for people to have abortions rather than having homeless children on the street. When he came out for his second cigarette, I asked him if he'd like some information...he became very angry, swearing at us, telling us that it's awful that we are making women feel guilty, etc. It was very obvious to me that he was the one feeling very guilty, but it was being misdirected at us. He calmed down and after a while we had a brief dialogue. He started the conversation and I told him that if he'd like to listen, I would tell him why we were there. He listened briefly and I told told him we were there because 85% of women having abortions are there because of pressure from their girlfriends/parents, and that we were there to help provide a better way. He already has a 2 year old son whom he bragged about to the security guard. You could see this young man had such a father's heart...I told him so. Doris tried to share with him with him as well, but he quickly became aggitated, so I left the conversation alone. He continued to be beligerent and left very angry into the abortion mill. Please continue to pray for him and for all of the couples/women who need healing from their abortions.
Lots more to tell you about today...i just don't have time right now...hope to be able to write more later. God bless! - Nicole
__________________________________
I just want to relate to you a little ray of hope I experienced this morning at Ground Zero. There was a young couple who were hanging around in front of the McDonald's. They looked like they might be going in for an abortion - she was wearing track pants (the abortuary suggests they wear loose clothing). Anyway, they stayed there for some time. Thinking to myself it would be easier to talk to them there, rather than to try and get a few quick words in as they are being ushered in by the security guard, I decided to go and talk to them. They said they were against abortion and said they were just waiting for her ex to come and see her baby (she showed me a picture of him on her cell phone). I'm not too sure I buy their story, they didn't have the baby with them. She then said she was two weeks pregnant, and that the father of this baby was going to stick around this time. The young man chimed in, saying "I have every intention of being a father to this baby". I asked them to take some brochures anyway, saying they probably knew more young people than I do, and could have a positive impact on their friends. They took them and stayed around for a while and then left. I figure this was a win-win situation. Either they weren't planning on an abortion and I was preaching to the choir, in which case they now find themselves with some good pro-life information and will be able to pass it on to someone who needs it, or they were headed to 65 Bank St. and they changed their minds. God bless them both! Now the bad news. I saw at least 3 women come out from their abortions alone, unaccompanied. One of them was obviously still very drugged. She had been sick earlier (she actually vomitted in the garbage on the sidewalk) so they probably gave her a higher dose of sedatives to calm her. When you go for a flu shot, they don't let you leave before the required time to make sure you're OK. That's only a flu shot. This woman had clearly been sedated, and they let her leave unaccompanied. There was also a very angry young man who had taken his girlfriend in. They already had a two year old, but this one was too much for them to handle. He let us know in no uncertain terms what he thought of us and told us we had no right to upset the women going in for abortions. So much anger, so much pain. My heart aches for them. May God's grace be on them. - Doris
_____________________________________
As I arrived in front of the clinic I noticed a man with a professional video camera and an announcer using us as a backdrop for their video. They didn’t look like news media, so I drifted over and asked them if they minded me asking them what they were shooting. The cameraman said, “I’m a student and this gentleman is a professor of science who is passionate about the environment, and we are shooting a documentary about how old the earth is and we wanted to show that others have a different opinion.”
He seemed a bit old to be a student but I didn’t question that. I simply asked him, “what makes you think that everybody in the prolife movement is a ‘young earth’ proponent, isn’t that kind of presumptuous?”
He shrugged. Then I asked the scientist “You are a man who has strong opinions about the value of science, do you mind me asking ‘when does life begin?’”
He looked at me and said, “I don’t know.”
I said “really?”
He replied “do you know?”
I said “yes, and there is not one biologist on the planet who will disagree, it’s fertilization. Could it be the reason you don’t want to answer is because you, like Obama, don’t want to face the moral implications of that answer?”
He said, “I don’t want to get into this now and waste 10 minutes talking about it”
I said, “But you are willing to spend hours working on a video that portrays prolifers as a bunch of science denying fundamentalists, and you can’t even answer a simple science question found in any grade 7 biology book? Who is the one denying science?”
With that they sheepishly packed up their camera gear and walked away.
Oh Lord, save us from those who are trying to use science as a political weapon against you. Show them that you created all science, and that your mysteries are completely consistent with science.
- David MacDonald
_____________________________________
As I was walking slowly back and forth a woman approached me and said.
I was very moved. I said to herm, “what you did was very courageous. I wish I had the same courage when I was in a similar situation in 1984. Abortion was the worst mistake I’ve ever made.” We prayed together and I thanked God for the life he saved, and I pray that in some small way I’ll be able to help others make a decision for life.
- David MacDonald
There was a guy this morning 21 years old smoking outside near the security guard, his wife was upstairs getting prepped for her abortion and the young man became very angry that we were outside. He initially started by talking to the security guard really loudly talking about how we are making women feel guilty and that it's better for people to have abortions rather than having homeless children on the street. When he came out for his second cigarette, I asked him if he'd like some information...he became very angry, swearing at us, telling us that it's awful that we are making women feel guilty, etc. It was very obvious to me that he was the one feeling very guilty, but it was being misdirected at us. He calmed down and after a while we had a brief dialogue. He started the conversation and I told him that if he'd like to listen, I would tell him why we were there. He listened briefly and I told told him we were there because 85% of women having abortions are there because of pressure from their girlfriends/parents, and that we were there to help provide a better way. He already has a 2 year old son whom he bragged about to the security guard. You could see this young man had such a father's heart...I told him so. Doris tried to share with him with him as well, but he quickly became aggitated, so I left the conversation alone. He continued to be beligerent and left very angry into the abortion mill. Please continue to pray for him and for all of the couples/women who need healing from their abortions.
Lots more to tell you about today...i just don't have time right now...hope to be able to write more later. God bless! - Nicole
__________________________________
I just want to relate to you a little ray of hope I experienced this morning at Ground Zero. There was a young couple who were hanging around in front of the McDonald's. They looked like they might be going in for an abortion - she was wearing track pants (the abortuary suggests they wear loose clothing). Anyway, they stayed there for some time. Thinking to myself it would be easier to talk to them there, rather than to try and get a few quick words in as they are being ushered in by the security guard, I decided to go and talk to them. They said they were against abortion and said they were just waiting for her ex to come and see her baby (she showed me a picture of him on her cell phone). I'm not too sure I buy their story, they didn't have the baby with them. She then said she was two weeks pregnant, and that the father of this baby was going to stick around this time. The young man chimed in, saying "I have every intention of being a father to this baby". I asked them to take some brochures anyway, saying they probably knew more young people than I do, and could have a positive impact on their friends. They took them and stayed around for a while and then left. I figure this was a win-win situation. Either they weren't planning on an abortion and I was preaching to the choir, in which case they now find themselves with some good pro-life information and will be able to pass it on to someone who needs it, or they were headed to 65 Bank St. and they changed their minds. God bless them both! Now the bad news. I saw at least 3 women come out from their abortions alone, unaccompanied. One of them was obviously still very drugged. She had been sick earlier (she actually vomitted in the garbage on the sidewalk) so they probably gave her a higher dose of sedatives to calm her. When you go for a flu shot, they don't let you leave before the required time to make sure you're OK. That's only a flu shot. This woman had clearly been sedated, and they let her leave unaccompanied. There was also a very angry young man who had taken his girlfriend in. They already had a two year old, but this one was too much for them to handle. He let us know in no uncertain terms what he thought of us and told us we had no right to upset the women going in for abortions. So much anger, so much pain. My heart aches for them. May God's grace be on them. - Doris
_____________________________________
As I arrived in front of the clinic I noticed a man with a professional video camera and an announcer using us as a backdrop for their video. They didn’t look like news media, so I drifted over and asked them if they minded me asking them what they were shooting. The cameraman said, “I’m a student and this gentleman is a professor of science who is passionate about the environment, and we are shooting a documentary about how old the earth is and we wanted to show that others have a different opinion.”
He seemed a bit old to be a student but I didn’t question that. I simply asked him, “what makes you think that everybody in the prolife movement is a ‘young earth’ proponent, isn’t that kind of presumptuous?”
He shrugged. Then I asked the scientist “You are a man who has strong opinions about the value of science, do you mind me asking ‘when does life begin?’”
He looked at me and said, “I don’t know.”
I said “really?”
He replied “do you know?”
I said “yes, and there is not one biologist on the planet who will disagree, it’s fertilization. Could it be the reason you don’t want to answer is because you, like Obama, don’t want to face the moral implications of that answer?”
He said, “I don’t want to get into this now and waste 10 minutes talking about it”
I said, “But you are willing to spend hours working on a video that portrays prolifers as a bunch of science denying fundamentalists, and you can’t even answer a simple science question found in any grade 7 biology book? Who is the one denying science?”
With that they sheepishly packed up their camera gear and walked away.
Oh Lord, save us from those who are trying to use science as a political weapon against you. Show them that you created all science, and that your mysteries are completely consistent with science.
- David MacDonald
_____________________________________
As I was walking slowly back and forth a woman approached me and said.
I work in the office building here and have been watching your group for several weeks. I want to let you know that I’ve been hoping and praying something like this would happen here. I was in that clinic 2.5 years ago. I was 44 years old, already had 3 children, and my husband and I work. This pregnancy was inconvenient and unexpected. My husband and my mother wanted me to have an abortion.
It was a cold Thursday in February. Inside the clinic, it was dirty and dreary and the chairs were all stained. There were several other couples there. I was alone because my husband was working. We were all given forms. As I began to fill in the form, I heard a woman, who had just had an abortion and was crying. I looked at the other women writing quickly, as reviewed the questions about my health, I got a sense the something was terribly wrong. I called my husband and said “I can’t do this, I’m not going to.” And then I walked out.
I never looked back. My daughter is 2 years old today. She is healthy and beautiful, and I can’t believe I was considering taking her life. She is a precious gift from God. I often stand out here on my work breaks and think about that day and pray for the women inside. There were sometimes protesters on Friday mornings, but there were abortions happening on Thursdays, Fridays, and now Wednesday. I’ve been praying that more people would come and pray in front of this clinic. You guys are an answer to my prayers. Thank you.
I was very moved. I said to herm, “what you did was very courageous. I wish I had the same courage when I was in a similar situation in 1984. Abortion was the worst mistake I’ve ever made.” We prayed together and I thanked God for the life he saved, and I pray that in some small way I’ll be able to help others make a decision for life.
- David MacDonald
Death of a Pro-Life Hero
Frank Mountain was a pioneer of the pro-life movement in Ottawa. It was through a car accident twenty years ago that he was paralysed. As he was driving his wife and five children to a pro-life demonstration along a road under construction, he veered to avoid an oncoming car and rolled the car off a road. His wife and children quickly recovered but Frank was permenantly disabled and he has been in a wheelchair since, but this never stopped him from being a mover and shaker in the pro-life movement. His ingenuity brought about many initiatives such as the Hike for Life, Pennies for Life and National March for Life.Frank has been a solid rock of support and guidance for Campaign Life Coalition Ottawa. Recently his health has gone downhill and he passed away this morning (Friday October 31) at 1:00 am. The funeral will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Kemptville Ontario (505 Clothier St. W.) on Monday November 3 at 11:00 am.
Report from America - Day 38
Tomorrow the number 5 and number 8 teams in college
football meet for a huge showdown in Jacksonville,
Florida: the Florida-Georgia game.
A few hours ago, I spoke at a fundraising banquet for
a pregnancy resource center here in Jacksonville,
after visiting the local 40 Days for Life campaign
that has mobilized 1,500 people and saved 6 lives.
At the banquet, I shared the platform with Pam Tebow,
mother of Florida quarterback -- and Heisman trophy
winner -- Tim Tebow.
She shared her amazing testimony about how doctors
had actually advised her to abort Tim when she was
pregnant with him...
...And why she refused.
She also shared how ESPN broadcast their amazing pro-
life testimony around the world, saving other lives.
After the dinner, Pam and her husband Bob sat down
with me to record a short audio clip to share their
story and to encourage YOU to persevere in your
40 Days for Life efforts.
I think you'll be blessed by the picture and seven-
minute audio I just posted online at:
http://40daysforlife.com/blog/?p=168
Today's devotional calls us to become vessels of
hope. It is indeed hope that you are bringing to the
abortion centers.
Women who are on the brink of abortion see no hope,
unless you're there to bring them hope: hope in God,
and hope in the form of better options for themselves
and their children.
Christ warned of those who would call good evil, and
call evil good.
We saw that firsthand in some pictures Bob sent from
an abortion center in Michigan. The clinic staff
posted four large message boards in the building's
windows -- three panels were an open letter to
"persons of faith" and the fourth was titled "a
blessing."
See picture online at:
http://40daysforlife.com/blog/?p=168
The letter began, "We forgive you for your
infringement into what is a deeply personal and
difficult time in our lives... We forgive you for
your lack of understanding, your blind assumptions
and your lack of faith in us."
The whole point of the letter is to make 40 Days for
Life vigil participants question why they stand
outside and pray, attempting to create confusion
about the very clear difference between right and
wrong that is central to the effort to end abortion.
The letter continued with a rehash of worn-out
abortion rhetoric. It suggests that in addition to
praying for an end to abortion, vigil participants
should "pray for universal health care, a living wage
and affordable child care," as if any perceived lack
of support in those areas offers justification for
terminating the life of innocent unborn children.
In short, this set of posters was an abortion
movement manifesto, suggesting that we have no right
to stand up -- as Christ commanded us -- in defense
of the least of our brothers and sisters.
"We are honoring our selves, our partners, our
families and our pregnancies with a wise decision,"
the letter stated.
That's enough to turn your stomach or rip your heart
-- or both. Sin honors no one.
What was truly reprehensible was the final poster,
the "blessing," which begins, "Let us be blessed as
we go forth. Choices have been made in some of the
hardest moments of our lives. May we leave this place
free from guilt and ready to live with conviction and
clarity of purpose." It ends, in classic prayer
style, with the single word, "Amen."
I prefer to think of this ploy as a desperation
measure by an abortion industry that knows its time
is running out.
That feeling is echoed in a message I received from
Marti in Little Rock.
"I cannot really describe the sense of relief I felt
when I arrived at 7:45 Saturday morning and found an
empty parking lot," she wrote. The abortion center
was closed.
"I just stood at the entryway of their lot and
praised God and claimed that someday this lot will
always be empty. I was standing there with the
perfect vision of what we are praying for -- days
upon days where no babies have to die in this place."
To that, we can truly say, "Amen!"
football meet for a huge showdown in Jacksonville,
Florida: the Florida-Georgia game.
A few hours ago, I spoke at a fundraising banquet for
a pregnancy resource center here in Jacksonville,
after visiting the local 40 Days for Life campaign
that has mobilized 1,500 people and saved 6 lives.
At the banquet, I shared the platform with Pam Tebow,
mother of Florida quarterback -- and Heisman trophy
winner -- Tim Tebow.
She shared her amazing testimony about how doctors
had actually advised her to abort Tim when she was
pregnant with him...
...And why she refused.
She also shared how ESPN broadcast their amazing pro-
life testimony around the world, saving other lives.
After the dinner, Pam and her husband Bob sat down
with me to record a short audio clip to share their
story and to encourage YOU to persevere in your
40 Days for Life efforts.
I think you'll be blessed by the picture and seven-
minute audio I just posted online at:
http://40daysforlife.com/blog/?p=168
Today's devotional calls us to become vessels of
hope. It is indeed hope that you are bringing to the
abortion centers.
Women who are on the brink of abortion see no hope,
unless you're there to bring them hope: hope in God,
and hope in the form of better options for themselves
and their children.
Christ warned of those who would call good evil, and
call evil good.
We saw that firsthand in some pictures Bob sent from
an abortion center in Michigan. The clinic staff
posted four large message boards in the building's
windows -- three panels were an open letter to
"persons of faith" and the fourth was titled "a
blessing."
See picture online at:
http://40daysforlife.com/blog/?p=168
The letter began, "We forgive you for your
infringement into what is a deeply personal and
difficult time in our lives... We forgive you for
your lack of understanding, your blind assumptions
and your lack of faith in us."
The whole point of the letter is to make 40 Days for
Life vigil participants question why they stand
outside and pray, attempting to create confusion
about the very clear difference between right and
wrong that is central to the effort to end abortion.
The letter continued with a rehash of worn-out
abortion rhetoric. It suggests that in addition to
praying for an end to abortion, vigil participants
should "pray for universal health care, a living wage
and affordable child care," as if any perceived lack
of support in those areas offers justification for
terminating the life of innocent unborn children.
In short, this set of posters was an abortion
movement manifesto, suggesting that we have no right
to stand up -- as Christ commanded us -- in defense
of the least of our brothers and sisters.
"We are honoring our selves, our partners, our
families and our pregnancies with a wise decision,"
the letter stated.
That's enough to turn your stomach or rip your heart
-- or both. Sin honors no one.
What was truly reprehensible was the final poster,
the "blessing," which begins, "Let us be blessed as
we go forth. Choices have been made in some of the
hardest moments of our lives. May we leave this place
free from guilt and ready to live with conviction and
clarity of purpose." It ends, in classic prayer
style, with the single word, "Amen."
I prefer to think of this ploy as a desperation
measure by an abortion industry that knows its time
is running out.
That feeling is echoed in a message I received from
Marti in Little Rock.
"I cannot really describe the sense of relief I felt
when I arrived at 7:45 Saturday morning and found an
empty parking lot," she wrote. The abortion center
was closed.
"I just stood at the entryway of their lot and
praised God and claimed that someday this lot will
always be empty. I was standing there with the
perfect vision of what we are praying for -- days
upon days where no babies have to die in this place."
To that, we can truly say, "Amen!"
Thursday, October 30, 2008
National Days of Prayer & Fasting for U.S. Election
Check it out:
http://www.fastforhope.com/
This will have a definite effect even here in Canada. We cannot afford Obama to get in.
Please join with our American brothers and sisters in praying and fasting for a McCain/Palin win.
http://www.fastforhope.com/
This will have a definite effect even here in Canada. We cannot afford Obama to get in.
Please join with our American brothers and sisters in praying and fasting for a McCain/Palin win.
Gound Zero Report - Day 36 [10.29]
It was a very cold down at ground Zero this morning. When I arrived at 8:30 Maggie from Saint Mary's was praying and had been for some time The councillor was already handing out pamphlets across the street. Within the next hour, 4 or 5 more prayer warriors arrived . Jennifer wasn't on the schedule but decided to drop by for a couple of hours as well. Around 11:20 Jen and I took a short break at 240 Sparks to warm up and recharge our batteries The councillor dropped by to talk with for a short while and told us how it just breaks her heart to see these women so often pressured into having abortions and often it is the woman's mother ( the baby's grandmother) who is doing the pressuring. How can this be I thought.
When we returned to pray the numbers were dwindling. We were unable to leave at noon as planned because by then we were alone. Jennifer stayed with me as long as possible but she had an appointment to keep at 1PM so she had to leave by 12:20 Since I was unable to leave because I was by myself , I decided pray to my guardian angel and ask him to send someone to take my place . Within 10 minutes he sent me this wonderful young man and seeing how cold I was David insisted that I go home and he would stay on until someone came by no matter how long it took. David MacDonald wasn't on the schedule today but just decided to stop by after work. Thank you David ( and to my guardian angel) I was just so happy to see you! I want to thank all those courageous and faithful souls who come out to pray day after day. God bless you all! - Maureen W.
When we returned to pray the numbers were dwindling. We were unable to leave at noon as planned because by then we were alone. Jennifer stayed with me as long as possible but she had an appointment to keep at 1PM so she had to leave by 12:20 Since I was unable to leave because I was by myself , I decided pray to my guardian angel and ask him to send someone to take my place . Within 10 minutes he sent me this wonderful young man and seeing how cold I was David insisted that I go home and he would stay on until someone came by no matter how long it took. David MacDonald wasn't on the schedule today but just decided to stop by after work. Thank you David ( and to my guardian angel) I was just so happy to see you! I want to thank all those courageous and faithful souls who come out to pray day after day. God bless you all! - Maureen W.
Report from America - Day 37
Today's Scripture verse from Romans beseeches us to,
"present your bodies a living sacrifice."
This is exactly what faithful volunteers have done
several times during this 40 Days for Life campaign,
when the police have been called -- either by
abortion facility workers or abortion supporters --
to investigate bogus complaints about those who are
peacefully standing up for life.
The mere sight of people quietly standing in prayer
outside an abortion center or Planned Parenthood
office is considered a reason to call the police.
In Winston-Salem, North Carolina, the 40 Days for
Life team has seen squad cars pull up at their vigil
more than once. Toni said the officers are always
nice and supportive, "and they are clearly annoyed
with the petty complaints about us being a
disturbance."
Toni said the local group has permit for its
activities, and they're in compliance with every
requirement. "We are just being effective in what we
are doing."
And what they're doing is raising awareness and
telling the entire city of Winston-Salem that there
is indeed an abortion center in their community.
"That appears to be the main topic of discussion when
patients enter the surrounding doctors' offices" in
the medical complex where the abortion center is
located, she said.
"That is what is bothering the doctors. We can only
hope and pray that neighboring doctors and other
businesses will unite to confront the owner of the
building leased by Planned Parenthood -- and maybe
Planned Parenthood themselves. Pray for this!"
Those who are "presenting their bodies a living
sacrifice" are also getting to know the local police
in California's San Fernando Valley. Patti describes
a "police drama" at one of the abortion centers where
a 40 Days for Life is taking place.
"We had five squad cars pull up, with officers going
inside the building, walking back to the driveway and
watching us out on the corner," she said.
"Early on, one asked me if we were staying peaceful,
and if anyone had been physically preventing people
from walking into the building, blocking cars from
getting into the parking lot, or -- get this --
jumping on top of car hoods!"
After about 20 minutes, the officer in charge spoke
to the group and acknowledged that everything they
were doing was perfectly legal. With that, they left.
Why the upsurge in calls to law enforcement?
The obvious answer is that the 40 Days for Life
prayer vigils are working. Powerfully. And the
abortion industry doesn't like it.
"The folks inside are getting frustrated and recently
called the police - twice - to 'report' [erroneously,
of course] that we were throwing things at the women
going in and were blocking the sidewalk," said Major
in Huntsville, Alabama. "This activity is definitely
the result of the continuous 40 Days for Life
presence."
Thanks to all of the police officers who've responded
so professionally to vigil participants in the wake
of these unfounded "disturbance" calls which are
clearly meant to harass and discourage participation
in 40 Days for Life!
And thanks to all of you for continuing your
prayerful witness against the evil of abortion,
presenting your bodies a living sacrifice, at the
very places where this unthinkable horror continues
to occur.
"present your bodies a living sacrifice."
This is exactly what faithful volunteers have done
several times during this 40 Days for Life campaign,
when the police have been called -- either by
abortion facility workers or abortion supporters --
to investigate bogus complaints about those who are
peacefully standing up for life.
The mere sight of people quietly standing in prayer
outside an abortion center or Planned Parenthood
office is considered a reason to call the police.
In Winston-Salem, North Carolina, the 40 Days for
Life team has seen squad cars pull up at their vigil
more than once. Toni said the officers are always
nice and supportive, "and they are clearly annoyed
with the petty complaints about us being a
disturbance."
Toni said the local group has permit for its
activities, and they're in compliance with every
requirement. "We are just being effective in what we
are doing."
And what they're doing is raising awareness and
telling the entire city of Winston-Salem that there
is indeed an abortion center in their community.
"That appears to be the main topic of discussion when
patients enter the surrounding doctors' offices" in
the medical complex where the abortion center is
located, she said.
"That is what is bothering the doctors. We can only
hope and pray that neighboring doctors and other
businesses will unite to confront the owner of the
building leased by Planned Parenthood -- and maybe
Planned Parenthood themselves. Pray for this!"
Those who are "presenting their bodies a living
sacrifice" are also getting to know the local police
in California's San Fernando Valley. Patti describes
a "police drama" at one of the abortion centers where
a 40 Days for Life is taking place.
"We had five squad cars pull up, with officers going
inside the building, walking back to the driveway and
watching us out on the corner," she said.
"Early on, one asked me if we were staying peaceful,
and if anyone had been physically preventing people
from walking into the building, blocking cars from
getting into the parking lot, or -- get this --
jumping on top of car hoods!"
After about 20 minutes, the officer in charge spoke
to the group and acknowledged that everything they
were doing was perfectly legal. With that, they left.
Why the upsurge in calls to law enforcement?
The obvious answer is that the 40 Days for Life
prayer vigils are working. Powerfully. And the
abortion industry doesn't like it.
"The folks inside are getting frustrated and recently
called the police - twice - to 'report' [erroneously,
of course] that we were throwing things at the women
going in and were blocking the sidewalk," said Major
in Huntsville, Alabama. "This activity is definitely
the result of the continuous 40 Days for Life
presence."
Thanks to all of the police officers who've responded
so professionally to vigil participants in the wake
of these unfounded "disturbance" calls which are
clearly meant to harass and discourage participation
in 40 Days for Life!
And thanks to all of you for continuing your
prayerful witness against the evil of abortion,
presenting your bodies a living sacrifice, at the
very places where this unthinkable horror continues
to occur.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Ground Zero Report - Day 36 [10.28]
Supply Side Abortion Economics
Readers of this blog are familiar with a notice I posted some time ago regarding Morgentaler's Abortion Mill advertising for a "counselor". You can read about it here. In that post, I expressed some doubt whether that ad had anything to do with our vigil. I figured it was merely routine given the date of the announcement.
Now I am not so sure.
I just got this message from Ground Zero.....
To be honest, I'm quite shocked. Can a quiet, prayerful vigil really cause such havoc on the abortion industry?
If so, then I think we have just stumbled upon the next pro-life strategy to be implemented across this country.
We need to devote some resources towards the "micro level" option to fighting abortion. For too long, we have been focusing too much of our time, energy, and resources on the politics of the issue which is really a "macro level" strategy. That still has to happen, of course, but the actual results are happening on the ground, in front of the abortion mills. That's where we can squeeze the life right out of abortion industry.
We need to duplicate, replicate, and multiply this strategy again and again in every province in this country where abortion is present.
A big part of defeating abortion is all about "supply side abortion economics": cut the suppliers and the economics takes care of itself.
Readers of this blog are familiar with a notice I posted some time ago regarding Morgentaler's Abortion Mill advertising for a "counselor". You can read about it here. In that post, I expressed some doubt whether that ad had anything to do with our vigil. I figured it was merely routine given the date of the announcement.
Now I am not so sure.
I just got this message from Ground Zero.....
Great news! I heard that the Morgentaler Abortuary is now advertising for NURSES!!! It was on "Peters News". A pro life nurse passed this on to one of our vigil participants, as she gets the job postings! She said, "I don't know what you're doing, but you're doing something right!" Isn't that awesome!? Wow! Just wanted to pass that on! God bless!
To be honest, I'm quite shocked. Can a quiet, prayerful vigil really cause such havoc on the abortion industry?
If so, then I think we have just stumbled upon the next pro-life strategy to be implemented across this country.
We need to devote some resources towards the "micro level" option to fighting abortion. For too long, we have been focusing too much of our time, energy, and resources on the politics of the issue which is really a "macro level" strategy. That still has to happen, of course, but the actual results are happening on the ground, in front of the abortion mills. That's where we can squeeze the life right out of abortion industry.
We need to duplicate, replicate, and multiply this strategy again and again in every province in this country where abortion is present.
A big part of defeating abortion is all about "supply side abortion economics": cut the suppliers and the economics takes care of itself.
Like A Rock
So last night I ventured out to Ground Zero. The blowing snow was very violent. Around midnight, there were about 5 people there, even though it was fit neither for man nor beast. Pedestrian traffic was decidedly reduced, understandably. So, for the most part, it was mostly a spiritual exercise since there wasn't much witnessing going on. I couldn't help but recognize the symmetry between the storm we were experiencing in the flesh with the storm happening in the Spirit.
There we were...the five of us in the freezing cold with the snow and wind bearing down on us. What fools we must look like out there when no one would see. No publicity, no passerbys, no TV cameras or reporters. Alone in the dead of night being pummelled by the inclement weather. Fools indeed. But better to be fools for Christ than the fools of this age.
I shifted from side to side so I could deflect some of the wind and cold. But there was one older gentleman behind me that wasn't even flinching.
"Man", I thought to myself, "this guy is tough".
As the hour went on, I would look back once in a while and still, the man, had not moved one inch. Not even a twitch. I had a tuque on. He had a hat and his ears were uncovered. And still he stood there motionless like a rock despite the vicious weather hammering down on us.
Like a rock.
As I reflected on that a bit, I thought of Jesus' words:
Solid like a rock.
There we were...the five of us in the freezing cold with the snow and wind bearing down on us. What fools we must look like out there when no one would see. No publicity, no passerbys, no TV cameras or reporters. Alone in the dead of night being pummelled by the inclement weather. Fools indeed. But better to be fools for Christ than the fools of this age.
I shifted from side to side so I could deflect some of the wind and cold. But there was one older gentleman behind me that wasn't even flinching.
"Man", I thought to myself, "this guy is tough".
As the hour went on, I would look back once in a while and still, the man, had not moved one inch. Not even a twitch. I had a tuque on. He had a hat and his ears were uncovered. And still he stood there motionless like a rock despite the vicious weather hammering down on us.
Like a rock.
As I reflected on that a bit, I thought of Jesus' words:
This little scene was emblematic of our greater struggle. Despite everything Hell throws at the Church, it will not be overcome. It will stand and not fall. Just like the man yesterday who didn't so much as blink at the sharp snow piercing his face.
And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. (Matthew 16:18)
Solid like a rock.
Prayers & Fastings...
In our parish sanctuary, we have a vigil candle burning, just to the left of the altar, for the 40 Days for Life. It is under the statue of our patroness, St. Elizabeth, shown pregnant with St. John the Baptist. The basket before the candle holds the pledge forms of those who are praying, fasting or witnessing on Bank Street. We lit the candle at the beginning of the campaign and will extinguish it this Sunday evening. - David D.
Report from America - Day 36
Yesterday afternoon I returned from Indiana, where I
visited the 40 Days for Life vigil in Ft. Wayne and
spoke for a Right to Life banquet in Columbia City.
Upon landing at Reagan airport in Washington, D.C., I
drove two hours down to Richmond, Virginia, to visit
the local 40 Days for Life campaign (which was the
43rd city I've visited since 40 Days for Life began
on September 24th.)
I'm home for a moment, and in a few hours our whole
family gets on a plane to head to Florida where we
will be running hard to visit every 40 Days for Life
location in the sunshine state before this fall's
campaign ends on Sunday -- just four days from now.
The excitement we have been seeing all across America
has been simply amazing.
But you don't have to travel all over the country to
get a sense of how God is moving across our land.
If you want to see more about the impact 40 Days for
Life is having -- especially on individuals -- just
search online blogs and comments. It's incredible!
"Yesterday marked my very first time ever to pray in
front of an abortion clinic," wrote a blogger in
Vallejo, California. "I have to admit that it has
been a very moving experience. It's quite different
from praying at home or at church -- since you're in
front of a place where innocent life is slaughtered."
It is a similar reaction that gets people to return
again and again, finding time in busy schedules to
pray for an end to abortion at the place where this
evil is permitted.
"It was a blessing to be there," wrote a blogger in
Washington, DC, after she and some friends went to
pray at the vigil in front of Planned Parenthood.
"God supplied us with a parking spot right in the
middle of the day. That is a feat in itself,
considering DC traffic, possible tickets and limited
parking. The hustle of the city ran about us; people
scurried before us; prayers were calm and constant as
we stood before Planned Parenthood, a place of death
and lies."
"My girlfriend and I took our bundled babies with us
as we stood out there in 23 degree temps for an
hour," wrote a blogger in Anchorage, Alaska. "We
decided today, that even after 40 Days for Life is
over, we will continue to go and pray weekly. Just
our presence is a conscience-tugger for many."
A blogger in Grand Rapids, Michigan wrote of the
discussion she had with a driver who pulled over in
front of the 40 Days for Life vigil to see what was
going on. He asked how long the people would be in
front of that building, and she responded 40 days.
The driver then asked what was in the building, and
she told him it was an abortion facility. "That's
what I thought," he responded. "What you are doing is
great. Keep at it."
"It was a simple exchange," she wrote, "but I was
struck by the fact that he stopped. Sure, people
walking by stop to ask questions, but not many
drivers. I realized then the influence we have had.
Our example, our presence has emboldened others. Many
people have drawn strength from our vigil, knowing if
we have the courage to stand against abortion, they
can have the courage to admit they are against it
too. If anything, our impact has been silent and
subtle, quietly changing hearts with our boldness."
And who knows which hearts may be changed? 40 Days
for Life is also mentioned on abortion advocacy
blogs. Many such blogs screech with anger, but some
are taking a closer look.
"I admit I am genuinely impressed by this group,"
wrote a pro-choice blogger. They have found a way to
voice their opinion without being mean, nasty and
overly graphic."
It was especially the absence of graphic posters that
showed her 40 Days for Life was different. She said
there was "not a chance" she would change her mind
about abortion, but then listed a number of things
that could be done to help women choose to keep their
children.
Not a chance? Who knows? Maybe God is at work here,
too. Keep praying!
visited the 40 Days for Life vigil in Ft. Wayne and
spoke for a Right to Life banquet in Columbia City.
Upon landing at Reagan airport in Washington, D.C., I
drove two hours down to Richmond, Virginia, to visit
the local 40 Days for Life campaign (which was the
43rd city I've visited since 40 Days for Life began
on September 24th.)
I'm home for a moment, and in a few hours our whole
family gets on a plane to head to Florida where we
will be running hard to visit every 40 Days for Life
location in the sunshine state before this fall's
campaign ends on Sunday -- just four days from now.
The excitement we have been seeing all across America
has been simply amazing.
But you don't have to travel all over the country to
get a sense of how God is moving across our land.
If you want to see more about the impact 40 Days for
Life is having -- especially on individuals -- just
search online blogs and comments. It's incredible!
"Yesterday marked my very first time ever to pray in
front of an abortion clinic," wrote a blogger in
Vallejo, California. "I have to admit that it has
been a very moving experience. It's quite different
from praying at home or at church -- since you're in
front of a place where innocent life is slaughtered."
It is a similar reaction that gets people to return
again and again, finding time in busy schedules to
pray for an end to abortion at the place where this
evil is permitted.
"It was a blessing to be there," wrote a blogger in
Washington, DC, after she and some friends went to
pray at the vigil in front of Planned Parenthood.
"God supplied us with a parking spot right in the
middle of the day. That is a feat in itself,
considering DC traffic, possible tickets and limited
parking. The hustle of the city ran about us; people
scurried before us; prayers were calm and constant as
we stood before Planned Parenthood, a place of death
and lies."
"My girlfriend and I took our bundled babies with us
as we stood out there in 23 degree temps for an
hour," wrote a blogger in Anchorage, Alaska. "We
decided today, that even after 40 Days for Life is
over, we will continue to go and pray weekly. Just
our presence is a conscience-tugger for many."
A blogger in Grand Rapids, Michigan wrote of the
discussion she had with a driver who pulled over in
front of the 40 Days for Life vigil to see what was
going on. He asked how long the people would be in
front of that building, and she responded 40 days.
The driver then asked what was in the building, and
she told him it was an abortion facility. "That's
what I thought," he responded. "What you are doing is
great. Keep at it."
"It was a simple exchange," she wrote, "but I was
struck by the fact that he stopped. Sure, people
walking by stop to ask questions, but not many
drivers. I realized then the influence we have had.
Our example, our presence has emboldened others. Many
people have drawn strength from our vigil, knowing if
we have the courage to stand against abortion, they
can have the courage to admit they are against it
too. If anything, our impact has been silent and
subtle, quietly changing hearts with our boldness."
And who knows which hearts may be changed? 40 Days
for Life is also mentioned on abortion advocacy
blogs. Many such blogs screech with anger, but some
are taking a closer look.
"I admit I am genuinely impressed by this group,"
wrote a pro-choice blogger. They have found a way to
voice their opinion without being mean, nasty and
overly graphic."
It was especially the absence of graphic posters that
showed her 40 Days for Life was different. She said
there was "not a chance" she would change her mind
about abortion, but then listed a number of things
that could be done to help women choose to keep their
children.
Not a chance? Who knows? Maybe God is at work here,
too. Keep praying!
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
News Report on Final Rally
OTTAWA, October 28, 2008 (LifeSiteNews.com) - The 40 Days for Life Ottawa campaign will conclude with a rally at Ground Zero (Morgentaler Abortion Mill, 65 Bank Street) on Sunday November 2, at 6:00 p.m. The rally will be followed by a candle light procession to St. Patrick's Basilica on Kent St. where Mass will be celebrated by Archbishop Prendergast, with a reception afterward.
The 40 Days for Life Ottawa campaign has been a resounding success, with prayer for an end to abortion being offered not only by vigil-keepers on site 24 hours a day, seven days a week for the past 35 days, but also in churches all over the province.
A parishioner from Holy Family Church in Hanover, Ontario, wrote in to the 40 Days Ottawa blog (http://40daysottawa.blogspot.com) to say, "We are doing a daily holy hour in support of the 40 Days for Life in Ottawa as well as other cities. These Holy Hours before the Blessed Sacrament are held at 3-4am as well as 3-4pm. We have had good turnout. These hours were picked as they are the Divine Mercy Hour, 3:00, when Christ died on the cross for us. We pray for an end to abortion and for mercy on our country."
"Even though we are not physically present with you, we are there in mind, spirit and prayer."
While the pro-life vigil has on the whole been a peaceful affair, some 40 Days for Life participants have had to endure abuse at the hands of abortion supporters, including a violent attack carried out against several pro-life women (See: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2008/oct/08101607.html). Yesterday afternoon the 40 Days for Life campaign took another dramatic, and possibility sinister turn when a suitcase was dropped off two doors down from the abortion clinic at about 1 p.m., by an individual who immediately left the scene.
This resulted in the Ottawa police bomb squad cordoning off and evacuating the area, while police checked the contents of the suitcase, which turned out to be empty. Prior to the discovery that the suitcase was empty, some news reports suggested that the suitcase might be a bomb planted by pro-lifers.
The CBC subsequently reported, "Police reopened Bank Street between Wellington and Queen Streets around 3 p.m., an Ottawa police statement said, after determining that the large black suitcase leaning against a post on the east side of Bank was empty and had been left out for disposal."
The major media reports suggested the suitcase was left to be picked up for garbage disposal, but the suspicious manner in which it was discarded has led some to wonder if the action was intended to cause a disturbance that would reflect negatively on the pro-life demonstrators.
Participants in the campaign continue to relate the heart-warming and heart-wrenching stories that occur during their vigil in front of the Morgentaler abortuary.
"David" reported that on Friday: "I went to the 40 days for life with my large ‘I regret lost fatherhood’ sign. It was quite different than when I was carrying the ‘Pray to End Abortion’ sign. I began to get these looks of pain from dozens of men. Men looked at me as if they wanted to say something but then looked down and kept walking."
One young man stopped. He said, “I’ve been living on the streets, I have a bunch of kids, from different girls. I’ve been in trouble with drugs, bank robberies, and my girlfriend and I broke up when she was 4 months pregnant. She went and got an abortion. She killed our kid just because we broke up. I’ve since stopped all drugs and I’m going to a church now. I’m cleaning up my life. I want to be a good father.”
Campaign organizer Nicole Campbell encourages pro-lifers to come not only to the closing rally, but also to the vigil site during these last few days.
Mention has been made of the possibility of continuing the prayer vigil at the abortuary in a scaled-down fashion after the campaign comes to an end. More details of this may be made known at the rally and reception.
The 40 Days for Life Ottawa campaign has been a resounding success, with prayer for an end to abortion being offered not only by vigil-keepers on site 24 hours a day, seven days a week for the past 35 days, but also in churches all over the province.
A parishioner from Holy Family Church in Hanover, Ontario, wrote in to the 40 Days Ottawa blog (http://40daysottawa.blogspot.com) to say, "We are doing a daily holy hour in support of the 40 Days for Life in Ottawa as well as other cities. These Holy Hours before the Blessed Sacrament are held at 3-4am as well as 3-4pm. We have had good turnout. These hours were picked as they are the Divine Mercy Hour, 3:00, when Christ died on the cross for us. We pray for an end to abortion and for mercy on our country."
"Even though we are not physically present with you, we are there in mind, spirit and prayer."
While the pro-life vigil has on the whole been a peaceful affair, some 40 Days for Life participants have had to endure abuse at the hands of abortion supporters, including a violent attack carried out against several pro-life women (See: http://www.lifesitenews.com/ldn/2008/oct/08101607.html). Yesterday afternoon the 40 Days for Life campaign took another dramatic, and possibility sinister turn when a suitcase was dropped off two doors down from the abortion clinic at about 1 p.m., by an individual who immediately left the scene.
This resulted in the Ottawa police bomb squad cordoning off and evacuating the area, while police checked the contents of the suitcase, which turned out to be empty. Prior to the discovery that the suitcase was empty, some news reports suggested that the suitcase might be a bomb planted by pro-lifers.
The CBC subsequently reported, "Police reopened Bank Street between Wellington and Queen Streets around 3 p.m., an Ottawa police statement said, after determining that the large black suitcase leaning against a post on the east side of Bank was empty and had been left out for disposal."
The major media reports suggested the suitcase was left to be picked up for garbage disposal, but the suspicious manner in which it was discarded has led some to wonder if the action was intended to cause a disturbance that would reflect negatively on the pro-life demonstrators.
Participants in the campaign continue to relate the heart-warming and heart-wrenching stories that occur during their vigil in front of the Morgentaler abortuary.
"David" reported that on Friday: "I went to the 40 days for life with my large ‘I regret lost fatherhood’ sign. It was quite different than when I was carrying the ‘Pray to End Abortion’ sign. I began to get these looks of pain from dozens of men. Men looked at me as if they wanted to say something but then looked down and kept walking."
One young man stopped. He said, “I’ve been living on the streets, I have a bunch of kids, from different girls. I’ve been in trouble with drugs, bank robberies, and my girlfriend and I broke up when she was 4 months pregnant. She went and got an abortion. She killed our kid just because we broke up. I’ve since stopped all drugs and I’m going to a church now. I’m cleaning up my life. I want to be a good father.”
Campaign organizer Nicole Campbell encourages pro-lifers to come not only to the closing rally, but also to the vigil site during these last few days.
Mention has been made of the possibility of continuing the prayer vigil at the abortuary in a scaled-down fashion after the campaign comes to an end. More details of this may be made known at the rally and reception.
Bomb Scare Not Too Rare
From A Reader...
There was another bomb scare near Bank Street just two days before. Bank, Lisgar, Nepean, Kent and O’Connor were closed to circulation from 10:45PM on Saturday, 25 October, until 1:25AM. This was reported in The Sun and Le droit (27 Oct08, p. 10; see below), but I cannot find a record of this incident reported by The Citizen or the CBC.
The police were probably hyper-sensitive to this kind of incident when the suitcase was discovered on Monday. Odd that the CBC and The Citizen found the Monday “empty suitcase” incident worthy of reporting and not the Saturday incident, which according to The Sun involved actual explosives. Hmmmm.
There was another bomb scare near Bank Street just two days before. Bank, Lisgar, Nepean, Kent and O’Connor were closed to circulation from 10:45PM on Saturday, 25 October, until 1:25AM. This was reported in The Sun and Le droit (27 Oct08, p. 10; see below), but I cannot find a record of this incident reported by The Citizen or the CBC.
The police were probably hyper-sensitive to this kind of incident when the suitcase was discovered on Monday. Odd that the CBC and The Citizen found the Monday “empty suitcase” incident worthy of reporting and not the Saturday incident, which according to The Sun involved actual explosives. Hmmmm.
Colis suspect a Ottawa
La découverte d'un colis suspect a nécessité la fermeture de plusieurs rues dans la nuit de samedi hier à Ottawa. Un piéton a logé un appel au 9-1-1 samedi vers 22 h 15 après avoir trouvé une glacière a proximité d'un site de construction situé à l’angle des rues Bank et Nepean. La glaciaire contenait finalement des échantillons de carotte de béton. Les rues Bank, Lisgar, Nepean, Kent et O'Connor ont été fermées à la circulation pendant près de trois heures soit de 22h45 à 1h25.
Ground Zero Report - Day 35 - Part B [10.28]
I was at Ground Zero this morning for my shift and for this first hour I was mostly alone. I was standing there, young girl, shivering a little in the wind, looking like a drowning rat, holding the "women need support not abortion sign". One guy walked by me and as he did so commented in a sing-song voice, "harrassment". I couldn't believe it. At that moment I could not think of anything less threatening than myself. I just think it is so hilarious, especially after yesterday, that people are labelling us as terrorists and suicide bombers when I've never seen a more innoculous bunch. It is also amazing how the most opinionated people seem to always be those in the biggest hurry. - Megan M.
Ground Zero Report - Day 35 [10.28]
Last Saturday evening between 9 and 10 pm I was at Ground Zero. There were probably 5 other people there and we had to witness a demonic attack. A young couple in their early twenties had a video on a tripod and taking turns drop kicking a baby doll. This doll would then fly in the air and they were laughing and yelling absenities. They also took the camera in their hands and zoomed in on us praying. I and others said nothing. It gave me a sick feeling in the pit of my stomach. - Anne E.
___________________________
My friend, Bill M., his wife Carmelita and I were with the group Monday, from 1:15 to 2:45 at ground zero, during the bomb scare. The Police didn’t take long in roping off the area along Bank St. from Queen to Sparks, taking in sidewalks on both sides of the street. This meant our group had to back away from the sidewalk, the location where we always position ourselves and move in back of the large cement flower planter and against the building. At this point the bomb squad arrived and ordered everyone to completely clear the whole block, isolating entrances to all the buildings and extending their yellow tapes blocking off all entrances to Sparks where it crosses Bank St. All the while this was happening our small group of 10 continued displaying their signs and praying Our Lady’s rosary. The media with their portable video and tripod mounted cameras, would put one in mind of a movie studio, ready to capture a great scene about to take place. One of the cameramen came over to where my 2 friends and I were standing displaying a picket and saying our rosaries. He must have been meditating on the text “I formed you in your mother’s womb”, because he rolled his camera for quite a while on us. With the viewing by the large number of people who have had to be evacuated from the buildings facing Bank St. and the 200 or more curiosity seekers who gathered, coming and going, and publicity by the Ottawa Citizen Tuesday Oct. 28/08 (one would have to say, our pro-life message was well promoted). Regarding the finishing of our 40 days of prayer, fasting and vigil on a “high note” on Sunday 6:00 p.m. at Ground Zero. What better way than through starting with the Holy Rosary, Eucharistic Celebration, Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary and uniting our trials with our Lord on His 14 Stations of the Cross. This takes place monthly at Holy Rosary Church - 20 Grant St. The First Saturday Devotion of November will take place on Saturday November 1, rosary beginning at 8:40 a.m., (which is the day before the wind-up.) Perhaps you could publish this in your next blog. Abortion is caused and carried out, mainly through violation of God’s 6th and 5th commandments respectively. During the 3rd apparition of Fatima July 1917, Our Blessed Mother showed the children a vision of hell where poor sinners go. “In order to save them God wishes to establish in the world devotion to My Immaculate Heart.” The suggestion was made that our prayer vigil should continue, rather than saying goodbye to each other at the end of the 40-day program. Our Blessed Mother told the children “If you do what I tell you, many souls will be saved, there will be peace”. Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary was started in St. Teresa’s Church over 35 years ago, -- to St. Mary’s,-- Our Lady of Perpetual Help-- and presently in Queen of the Most Holy Rosary. Since at Holy Rosary, Father John Likozar has dedicated himself to carrying on this Devotion, and has been doing so since September 2005. Wouldn’t it be fitting for anyone or group to gather once a month, to consecrate themselves to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, through Her First Saturday Devotions, and beg Her intercession to overcome the evils of abortion from conception to natural death. - Bernie
___________________________
My friend, Bill M., his wife Carmelita and I were with the group Monday, from 1:15 to 2:45 at ground zero, during the bomb scare. The Police didn’t take long in roping off the area along Bank St. from Queen to Sparks, taking in sidewalks on both sides of the street. This meant our group had to back away from the sidewalk, the location where we always position ourselves and move in back of the large cement flower planter and against the building. At this point the bomb squad arrived and ordered everyone to completely clear the whole block, isolating entrances to all the buildings and extending their yellow tapes blocking off all entrances to Sparks where it crosses Bank St. All the while this was happening our small group of 10 continued displaying their signs and praying Our Lady’s rosary. The media with their portable video and tripod mounted cameras, would put one in mind of a movie studio, ready to capture a great scene about to take place. One of the cameramen came over to where my 2 friends and I were standing displaying a picket and saying our rosaries. He must have been meditating on the text “I formed you in your mother’s womb”, because he rolled his camera for quite a while on us. With the viewing by the large number of people who have had to be evacuated from the buildings facing Bank St. and the 200 or more curiosity seekers who gathered, coming and going, and publicity by the Ottawa Citizen Tuesday Oct. 28/08 (one would have to say, our pro-life message was well promoted). Regarding the finishing of our 40 days of prayer, fasting and vigil on a “high note” on Sunday 6:00 p.m. at Ground Zero. What better way than through starting with the Holy Rosary, Eucharistic Celebration, Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary and uniting our trials with our Lord on His 14 Stations of the Cross. This takes place monthly at Holy Rosary Church - 20 Grant St. The First Saturday Devotion of November will take place on Saturday November 1, rosary beginning at 8:40 a.m., (which is the day before the wind-up.) Perhaps you could publish this in your next blog. Abortion is caused and carried out, mainly through violation of God’s 6th and 5th commandments respectively. During the 3rd apparition of Fatima July 1917, Our Blessed Mother showed the children a vision of hell where poor sinners go. “In order to save them God wishes to establish in the world devotion to My Immaculate Heart.” The suggestion was made that our prayer vigil should continue, rather than saying goodbye to each other at the end of the 40-day program. Our Blessed Mother told the children “If you do what I tell you, many souls will be saved, there will be peace”. Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary was started in St. Teresa’s Church over 35 years ago, -- to St. Mary’s,-- Our Lady of Perpetual Help-- and presently in Queen of the Most Holy Rosary. Since at Holy Rosary, Father John Likozar has dedicated himself to carrying on this Devotion, and has been doing so since September 2005. Wouldn’t it be fitting for anyone or group to gather once a month, to consecrate themselves to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, through Her First Saturday Devotions, and beg Her intercession to overcome the evils of abortion from conception to natural death. - Bernie
Report from America - Day 35
Today's devotional deals with post-abortion healing.
With that in mind, here's a story from Mike Stack
from the 40 Days for Life in Southfield, Michigan
that shows the importance of our outreach to those
who are hurting following an abortion experience...
***FROM MIKE STACK, 40 DAYS FOR LIFE SOUTHFIELD***
I'm still a bit awestruck and emotional at what I
encountered at the vigil site today.
We had invited several post-abortive women and men to
stand with the "I Regret my Abortion" and "I Regret
Lost Fatherhood" signs from the Silent No More
campaign. Several of them shared their testimony of
hurt and healing. I am still trying to process the
intense emotions I have from this experience.
Here we have women and men deliberately ripping off
their band aids and exposing their pain for the sake
of those entering the abortion facility and those who
work there. I have never seen a greater act of love.
Their self sacrifice is changing hearts and saving
their sisters and brothers from making the same
mistake they made so many years ago. My heart breaks
not only from the sorrow of listening to their pain
but from the joy of seeing the healing that they have
experienced through God's Mercy.
One of the most remarkable stories we heard this
morning was shared by a woman that providence brought
to us today.
She is well acquainted with the abortion facility
where the 40 Days for Life vigil is taking place. She
had an abortion there several months ago.
She told us how she was ambivalent about her abortion
decision and had gone back and forth between the
abortion facility and the crisis pregnancy center
just down the road.
At that time she had been given a diagnosis of HIV
and the abortion facility convinced her that her only
option was to abort to avoid passing the deadly virus
to her baby. Even though her husband objected, she
initially consented to the abortion.
She was well into her second trimester and would need
the two-day procedure for her abortion. She wanted
time to think but the staff insisted she stay for the
abortion and tricked her into doing the entire
procedure in one day.
Meanwhile her husband was doing every thing he could
to talk to her and get her out of the abortion
facility but the staff locked him out and forced her
to turn off her cell phone so he couldn't communicate
with her.
With the abortion completed she left and was later
rechecked for HIV. It was found that there had been
some mistake at the lab and she had been given a
false positive report for HIV.
Today God has given her a healthy pregnancy -- twins!
-- a renewed marriage commitment and some good
lawyers to bring prosecution against the abortionist
and his staff. She freely admits that these are all
good things but nothing will bring back the child she
has lost to abortion.
We pray in thanksgiving for the courage these women
and men have demonstrated in exposing their hurt and
healing and we pray for blessings on all those that
hear their courageous words.
With that in mind, here's a story from Mike Stack
from the 40 Days for Life in Southfield, Michigan
that shows the importance of our outreach to those
who are hurting following an abortion experience...
***FROM MIKE STACK, 40 DAYS FOR LIFE SOUTHFIELD***
I'm still a bit awestruck and emotional at what I
encountered at the vigil site today.
We had invited several post-abortive women and men to
stand with the "I Regret my Abortion" and "I Regret
Lost Fatherhood" signs from the Silent No More
campaign. Several of them shared their testimony of
hurt and healing. I am still trying to process the
intense emotions I have from this experience.
Here we have women and men deliberately ripping off
their band aids and exposing their pain for the sake
of those entering the abortion facility and those who
work there. I have never seen a greater act of love.
Their self sacrifice is changing hearts and saving
their sisters and brothers from making the same
mistake they made so many years ago. My heart breaks
not only from the sorrow of listening to their pain
but from the joy of seeing the healing that they have
experienced through God's Mercy.
One of the most remarkable stories we heard this
morning was shared by a woman that providence brought
to us today.
She is well acquainted with the abortion facility
where the 40 Days for Life vigil is taking place. She
had an abortion there several months ago.
She told us how she was ambivalent about her abortion
decision and had gone back and forth between the
abortion facility and the crisis pregnancy center
just down the road.
At that time she had been given a diagnosis of HIV
and the abortion facility convinced her that her only
option was to abort to avoid passing the deadly virus
to her baby. Even though her husband objected, she
initially consented to the abortion.
She was well into her second trimester and would need
the two-day procedure for her abortion. She wanted
time to think but the staff insisted she stay for the
abortion and tricked her into doing the entire
procedure in one day.
Meanwhile her husband was doing every thing he could
to talk to her and get her out of the abortion
facility but the staff locked him out and forced her
to turn off her cell phone so he couldn't communicate
with her.
With the abortion completed she left and was later
rechecked for HIV. It was found that there had been
some mistake at the lab and she had been given a
false positive report for HIV.
Today God has given her a healthy pregnancy -- twins!
-- a renewed marriage commitment and some good
lawyers to bring prosecution against the abortionist
and his staff. She freely admits that these are all
good things but nothing will bring back the child she
has lost to abortion.
We pray in thanksgiving for the courage these women
and men have demonstrated in exposing their hurt and
healing and we pray for blessings on all those that
hear their courageous words.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Closing Rally of the 40 Days for Life
WHERE: Ground Zero (Morgentaler Abortion Mill, 65 Bank Street) & St. Patrick’s Basilica
WHEN: November 2, 2008
TIME: 6:00PM
We are meeting at Ground Zero, and will hear from a few speakers, then will proceed with candle light to St. Patrick’s where we will celebrate Mass with the Archbishop, with reception to follow.
Faytene Kryskowwill be sending along a video message that will be viewed after the Mass.
All are welcome!
If you need more information call Nicole Campbell at Campaign Life Coalition at 613-729-0379.
WHEN: November 2, 2008
TIME: 6:00PM
We are meeting at Ground Zero, and will hear from a few speakers, then will proceed with candle light to St. Patrick’s where we will celebrate Mass with the Archbishop, with reception to follow.
Faytene Kryskowwill be sending along a video message that will be viewed after the Mass.
All are welcome!
If you need more information call Nicole Campbell at Campaign Life Coalition at 613-729-0379.
Suitcase Scare at the Abortion Mill
CANWEST: OTTAWA - A busy block in downtown Ottawa was evacuated Monday after a suitcase, intended for the garbage heap, raised suspicions when it was dropped off near an abortion clinic - a short distance from Parliament Hill. An Ottawa police bomb squad was called in and the area was cordoned off while bomb technicians assessed the situation. Sgt. Rick Giroux said the suitcase was left in the area at about 1 p.m. by an individual who immediately left the scene. A large suitcase was left outside the abortion clinic early Monday afternoon. The suitcase was deemed harmless and the area was cleared by 2:45 p.m. The section of Bank Street houses an abortion clinic that has been the site of constant silent protests, with many people gathering directly across the street, carrying pro-life placards. As soon as the police tape was removed, about a half dozen protesters continued their silent action. (Source)
CBC: A suitcase that prompted a bomb scare Monday afternoon outside a downtown Ottawa abortion clinic turned out to be empty. Police reopened Bank Street between Wellington and Queen Streets around 3 p.m., an Ottawa police statement said, after determining that the large black suitcase leaning against a post on the east side of Bank was empty and had been left out for disposal. The streets had been closed earlier in the afternoon. Anti-abortion protesters often march and wave placards outside the clinic. (Source)
Editor's Note: Please excuse us for posting from the CBC, but it could not be avoided since they have reported on some new information. According to the red highlighted section above, it appears there was not even any intent to cause a disturbance.
_____________________________________
Discussion over at CBC's website here. We encourage our readers to join the discussion. For those visiting this website from the CBC discussion, a reality check that no mainstream media bothered to report:
OTTAWA, October 16, 2008 (LifeSiteNews.com) - Yesterday at about 2 p.m. several women participating in 40 Days for Life Ottawa and keeping vigil at the Bank St. abortuary were violently assaulted. A woman began yelling obscenities at the pro-life volunteers and then became physically aggressive, throwing food at one of the vigil participants and then throwing punches and kicking. Eyewitnesses said that the woman came with her lunch and sat between two ladies who were praying. She then shouted out repeatedly, "You've had your protest, now I'm going to have mine," whereupon she threw her food at one vigil-keeper and then began pushing, screaming obscenities, and swinging her fists. The belligerent woman approached an elderly lady and said, "You're old, why don't you die," according to an eyewitness. Suzanne Poulin, age 51, was one of the women who bore the brunt of the attack. Suzanne told LifeSiteNews.com that the attacker threw her to the ground and began pummeling her face. She suffered bruises to her face and nose, a cut lip and her ear was torn, possibly by a ring the assailant was wearing. Just before this Suzanne was advising the other vigil-keepers to remain silent and not engage the abusive woman. Suzanne emphasized that none of the vigil-keepers touched or hurt the assailant. The police were called while the security guard from the abortion mill and some men from the gathering crowd tried to subdue the attacker, who was described as about 30 years old, and well dressed and groomed. Four police cruisers came to the scene, at which point the attacker to fled into an adjacent building. She was apprehended by police and arrested. The assailant continued to scream insults and obscenities as they took her away, while a paramedic attended to Suzanne and the other women that had been injured in the attack. Suzanne told LifeSiteNews.com that she will press charges against the attacker, but that she also forgave her and will continue to pray for her. "As a mother, I have developed good judgment to know when someone needs correction. This woman needs not only to be corrected, she needs anger management. Her actions will probably have a very negative effect on the rest of her life. With prayer, this incident may help her to see the truth and turn her toward life," Suzanne said. Suzanne returned to the Bank St. abortuary for her vigil today. For updates from the vigil site go to: http://40daysottawa.blogspot.com/
CBC: A suitcase that prompted a bomb scare Monday afternoon outside a downtown Ottawa abortion clinic turned out to be empty. Police reopened Bank Street between Wellington and Queen Streets around 3 p.m., an Ottawa police statement said, after determining that the large black suitcase leaning against a post on the east side of Bank was empty and had been left out for disposal. The streets had been closed earlier in the afternoon. Anti-abortion protesters often march and wave placards outside the clinic. (Source)
Editor's Note: Please excuse us for posting from the CBC, but it could not be avoided since they have reported on some new information. According to the red highlighted section above, it appears there was not even any intent to cause a disturbance.
_____________________________________
Discussion over at CBC's website here. We encourage our readers to join the discussion. For those visiting this website from the CBC discussion, a reality check that no mainstream media bothered to report:
OTTAWA, October 16, 2008 (LifeSiteNews.com) - Yesterday at about 2 p.m. several women participating in 40 Days for Life Ottawa and keeping vigil at the Bank St. abortuary were violently assaulted. A woman began yelling obscenities at the pro-life volunteers and then became physically aggressive, throwing food at one of the vigil participants and then throwing punches and kicking. Eyewitnesses said that the woman came with her lunch and sat between two ladies who were praying. She then shouted out repeatedly, "You've had your protest, now I'm going to have mine," whereupon she threw her food at one vigil-keeper and then began pushing, screaming obscenities, and swinging her fists. The belligerent woman approached an elderly lady and said, "You're old, why don't you die," according to an eyewitness. Suzanne Poulin, age 51, was one of the women who bore the brunt of the attack. Suzanne told LifeSiteNews.com that the attacker threw her to the ground and began pummeling her face. She suffered bruises to her face and nose, a cut lip and her ear was torn, possibly by a ring the assailant was wearing. Just before this Suzanne was advising the other vigil-keepers to remain silent and not engage the abusive woman. Suzanne emphasized that none of the vigil-keepers touched or hurt the assailant. The police were called while the security guard from the abortion mill and some men from the gathering crowd tried to subdue the attacker, who was described as about 30 years old, and well dressed and groomed. Four police cruisers came to the scene, at which point the attacker to fled into an adjacent building. She was apprehended by police and arrested. The assailant continued to scream insults and obscenities as they took her away, while a paramedic attended to Suzanne and the other women that had been injured in the attack. Suzanne told LifeSiteNews.com that she will press charges against the attacker, but that she also forgave her and will continue to pray for her. "As a mother, I have developed good judgment to know when someone needs correction. This woman needs not only to be corrected, she needs anger management. Her actions will probably have a very negative effect on the rest of her life. With prayer, this incident may help her to see the truth and turn her toward life," Suzanne said. Suzanne returned to the Bank St. abortuary for her vigil today. For updates from the vigil site go to: http://40daysottawa.blogspot.com/
Report from America - Day 34
"The Oklahoma City clinic has been closed five days
in a row now," Karen told me. "No word on why. Praise
God! It's not like him to close during the week."
That quick message says so much. The "why" really
isn't that important; what's important is that for
numerous days during this 40 Days for Life campaign,
the doors were locked -- and no babies were dying in
one Oklahoma City abortion facility.
In Ottawa, Ontario, the 40 Days for Life team spotted
a want ad for the Morgentaler Clinic, the center run
by Canada's most infamous abortionist.
The ad is for a counselor. The clinic is looking for
someone with a university degree to work 15 hours a
week. The job pays $24 an hour, and it's an immediate
opening.
Does that mean the previous counselor quit? There's
no way of telling at this point. But that could well
be the case.
It's noteworthy when clinics close or lose staff
members, but it's your presence outside the abortion
centers that is, has been, and will continue to be so
critical to changing individual hearts and minds.
And that's why we continue to rejoice in the many
reports we're hearing of saved lives.
The latest tally of confirmed lives saved as a result
of this fall's 40 Days for Life campaign is up to...
...384!!
Here are just a few of those stories:
"Another turnaround!" notes Major in Huntsville,
Alabama. "That makes six here since 40 Days for Life
started. This one was 18 to 20 weeks into her
pregnancy. Please pray for her!"
"A pregnant woman came to speak to me after having
left the abortion clinic," said Joanne at 40 Days for
Life in Providence, Rhode Island. "She changed her
mind because people were praying outside. She has
decided to have the baby."
A couple spoke to a 40 Days for Life volunteer
outside the abortion facility in Louisville,
Kentucky, then went in. A while later, they two came
back out and the man said, "You got to me. We
couldn't do it!" Jenny said there is so much to be
thankful for. "Isn't it so humbling that God has
called us to be a part of this?"
Luke in South Bend, Indiana tells of praying at the
40 Days for Life vigil on a day he was tired, hungry
and really looking forward to taking a break. About
that time, a woman drove up and asked if he worked at
the abortion center. "No, I'm working for the Lord,"
he said, "and praying."
The woman told Luke she was under extreme pressure to
have an abortion, and then asked him, "Can I have
your advice? What do you think I should do?"
Luke prayed for the Holy Spirit to give him the right
words. He then asked the woman, "Who gave you this
child?" Those were indeed the right words; she
responded, "God did."
He asked her how she could reject such a gift. She
thought about that for a moment and said, "You're
right. I could never have an abortion." Luke told her
she could find help at the nearby pregnancy resource
center, and then she drove away.
"I broke down and cried for joy," he said. "Blessed
be God forever!"
in a row now," Karen told me. "No word on why. Praise
God! It's not like him to close during the week."
That quick message says so much. The "why" really
isn't that important; what's important is that for
numerous days during this 40 Days for Life campaign,
the doors were locked -- and no babies were dying in
one Oklahoma City abortion facility.
In Ottawa, Ontario, the 40 Days for Life team spotted
a want ad for the Morgentaler Clinic, the center run
by Canada's most infamous abortionist.
The ad is for a counselor. The clinic is looking for
someone with a university degree to work 15 hours a
week. The job pays $24 an hour, and it's an immediate
opening.
Does that mean the previous counselor quit? There's
no way of telling at this point. But that could well
be the case.
It's noteworthy when clinics close or lose staff
members, but it's your presence outside the abortion
centers that is, has been, and will continue to be so
critical to changing individual hearts and minds.
And that's why we continue to rejoice in the many
reports we're hearing of saved lives.
The latest tally of confirmed lives saved as a result
of this fall's 40 Days for Life campaign is up to...
...384!!
Here are just a few of those stories:
"Another turnaround!" notes Major in Huntsville,
Alabama. "That makes six here since 40 Days for Life
started. This one was 18 to 20 weeks into her
pregnancy. Please pray for her!"
"A pregnant woman came to speak to me after having
left the abortion clinic," said Joanne at 40 Days for
Life in Providence, Rhode Island. "She changed her
mind because people were praying outside. She has
decided to have the baby."
A couple spoke to a 40 Days for Life volunteer
outside the abortion facility in Louisville,
Kentucky, then went in. A while later, they two came
back out and the man said, "You got to me. We
couldn't do it!" Jenny said there is so much to be
thankful for. "Isn't it so humbling that God has
called us to be a part of this?"
Luke in South Bend, Indiana tells of praying at the
40 Days for Life vigil on a day he was tired, hungry
and really looking forward to taking a break. About
that time, a woman drove up and asked if he worked at
the abortion center. "No, I'm working for the Lord,"
he said, "and praying."
The woman told Luke she was under extreme pressure to
have an abortion, and then asked him, "Can I have
your advice? What do you think I should do?"
Luke prayed for the Holy Spirit to give him the right
words. He then asked the woman, "Who gave you this
child?" Those were indeed the right words; she
responded, "God did."
He asked her how she could reject such a gift. She
thought about that for a moment and said, "You're
right. I could never have an abortion." Luke told her
she could find help at the nearby pregnancy resource
center, and then she drove away.
"I broke down and cried for joy," he said. "Blessed
be God forever!"
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Ground Zero Report - Day 33 [10.26]
I was just talking to Maureen on my return, with my friend Carmel, from the prayer Vigil at the abortion clinic at Ground Zero this afternoon and related to her this incident that she suggested I send to you.
It was close to 45 minutes after we arrived at the abortion clinic. A young couple arrived and the young lady sat on the cement. So I reminded her that we are not allowed to sit there.
She said she could not stand for long because of pain in her leg. I suggested she use one of the folding chairs. I asked her if this was their first visit to Ground Zero and she said yes, because they are from Montréal. She found out about "The 40 Days for Life" on the internent and arranged for half a day off work to come to Ottawa. They were returning to Montréal after their vigil.
In my excitement I mentioned to another lady prayer warrior that these 2 young people had come from Montréal and this lady said she was from Edmonton, visiting in Montréal, and had also come to Ottawa to pray today.
The sacrifices people are ready to make to fight this evil!!!!
Praise God,
Marie
It was close to 45 minutes after we arrived at the abortion clinic. A young couple arrived and the young lady sat on the cement. So I reminded her that we are not allowed to sit there.
She said she could not stand for long because of pain in her leg. I suggested she use one of the folding chairs. I asked her if this was their first visit to Ground Zero and she said yes, because they are from Montréal. She found out about "The 40 Days for Life" on the internent and arranged for half a day off work to come to Ottawa. They were returning to Montréal after their vigil.
In my excitement I mentioned to another lady prayer warrior that these 2 young people had come from Montréal and this lady said she was from Edmonton, visiting in Montréal, and had also come to Ottawa to pray today.
The sacrifices people are ready to make to fight this evil!!!!
Praise God,
Marie
Report from America - Day 33
With only one week left of the fall 40 Days for Life
campaign, I wanted to share a touching story with you
that appears in the current issue of the National
Catholic Register.
It's about two of the local 40 Days for Life leaders
in Massachusetts. Until reporter Gail Besse called me
about this story, I had no idea what Stephen Marcotte
and Paul Fullen did for a living.
It turns out they do the same thing in their
full-time jobs as they do with their local 40 Days
for Life campaigns -- they save lives!
Here, thanks to the National Catholic Register's kind
permission, are excerpts of their story...
-----------------------------------------------------
HEARTS ON FIRE FOR LIFE
BY GAIL BESSE
-----------------------------------------------------
Ever since the day he responded to an emergency at
the Four Women Clinic in Attleboro, Mass.,
firefighter Stephen Marcotte has looked at lifesaving
in a new way. The crisis was abortion-related.
"I asked the patient's name like I do on all medical
runs, but nobody knew," he recalls. "Here they had
just aborted this 19-year-old girl's baby, and I saw
them scrambling to find out who she was. To them, she
was just a procedure, a paycheck. That really
bothered me."
An eight-year veteran Attleboro firefighter and
emergency medical technician, Marcotte found himself
contemplating Pope John Paul II's call to build a
culture of life.
"It just didn't sit right with me that I was just
sitting by with this in my back yard," he says.
Marcotte, 34, prayed about the situation at
Eucharistic adoration.
The result: He's now helping coordinate a 40 Days for
Life vigil outside that same clinic. The vigil is one
of 174 planned across the United States and Canada in
the lead-up to Election Day, Nov. 4.
The 40 Days for Life campaign seeks God's power to
end abortion. It consists of 40 days of prayer and
fasting, community outreach and peaceful public
witness outside abortion facilities. The effort is
modeled on biblical 40-day periods when God worked
miracles through Noah, Moses, Elijah, Jesus and the
disciples.
In Worcester, Mass., firefighter Paul Fullen will
head up another of the five Bay State vigils. Fullen
and his wife, Crystal, both 37, will coordinate
efforts outside Planned Parenthood there.
"We could have other firefighters involved that I
just don't know of," says David Bereit, founder and
national director of 40 Days for Life. "I get to know
people around this shared mission rather than by
their occupations, but it's certainly a natural fit.
Firefighters have already demonstrated they're
willing to sacrifice and risk their lives. Now
they're willing to sacrifice and risk embarrassment
and persecution.
"There's just as much heroism involved in trying to
save a life in the womb as in fighting fires in
burning buildings," adds Bereit.
Fullen, a 10-year veteran of the fire department,
sees the connection between his occupation and his
pro-life prayer work with new clarity. "Our job," he
says, "is to protect life and property."
"This is stepping out into the trenches," says
Marcotte. "Prayer is so important, but it's combining
prayer with getting out of my comfort zone that drew
me. I just bought into the whole campaign. The Holy
Spirit put it on my heart to trust that the Lord is
in charge -- and I'm excited about how he continues
to bless this campaign."
Bishop George Coleman of the Diocese of Fall River,
Mass., is among more than 20 Catholic bishops
nationwide actively supporting this pro-life
mobilization.
Bereit, says he, too, is energized by the campaign's
momentum. Since it began in Texas in 2004, two
Planned Parenthood centers have stopped doing
abortions and a third clinic has closed. At least 500
babies are known to have been saved.
"This comes at a crucial time now that abortion is in
the forefront of the political debate," Bereit points
out.
Marcotte admits he was wary of going public with his
convictions. "I knew I'd get razzing from some of the
guys, and I was a little nervous," he says. "Then I
thought: Whoa -- if I like being out of my comfort
zone by praying outside the clinic, then I shouldn't
worry about my comfort zone when it affects other
parts of my life. I've got to be consistent."
Fullen concurs. "My wife is expecting our seventh
child," he says with a smile, "so the other guys
think I'm crazy anyway."
"Many firefighters I know are not afraid of standing
up for what they believe in," says Father Michael
McNamara, a Boston archdiocesan priest who has headed
numerous pro-life prayer vigils. "Maybe it's because
when they understand their role in the protection of
life as a vocation from the Lord, they seek God's
guidance in their everyday lives.
"It's so in their character to view a situation with
a clear mind and logical thinking," adds Father
McNamara. "They're used to reflection and then action
as normal responses on the job."
Volunteers in their 30s like Marcotte and the Fullens
are typical nationwide, Bereit notes.
"You know, until I started with 40 Days for Life, I
was just like many people are now," says Fullen. "I
was uninformed. Hopefully, this will get people to
realize how the life issue is right up there in the
forefront for the upcoming elections."
Although 40 Days is ecumenical, Bereit says, it's now
almost 75% Catholic, thanks to early support from
pro-life leaders like Father Frank Pavone and Father
Thomas Euteneuer, along with coverage in the Register
and other Catholic media.
"Evangelicals are being inspired by their Catholic
brothers and sisters," Bereit says. "It's beautiful
to watch people who don't see eye-to-eye
theologically stand arm-in-arm to speak up for life."
Especially when they put their actions where their
words are, extinguishing the fires of the culture of
death -- one vigil at a time.
Read the whole article online at:
http://www.ncregister.com/site/article/16302/
-----------------------------------------------------
I thank Stephen and Paul for their willingness to
answer God's call.
And I thank God for raising up people -- just like
YOU -- all across North America who are also
answering God's call to "speak up for those who
cannot speak for themselves."
Together we are making a powerful impact!
campaign, I wanted to share a touching story with you
that appears in the current issue of the National
Catholic Register.
It's about two of the local 40 Days for Life leaders
in Massachusetts. Until reporter Gail Besse called me
about this story, I had no idea what Stephen Marcotte
and Paul Fullen did for a living.
It turns out they do the same thing in their
full-time jobs as they do with their local 40 Days
for Life campaigns -- they save lives!
Here, thanks to the National Catholic Register's kind
permission, are excerpts of their story...
-----------------------------------------------------
HEARTS ON FIRE FOR LIFE
BY GAIL BESSE
-----------------------------------------------------
Ever since the day he responded to an emergency at
the Four Women Clinic in Attleboro, Mass.,
firefighter Stephen Marcotte has looked at lifesaving
in a new way. The crisis was abortion-related.
"I asked the patient's name like I do on all medical
runs, but nobody knew," he recalls. "Here they had
just aborted this 19-year-old girl's baby, and I saw
them scrambling to find out who she was. To them, she
was just a procedure, a paycheck. That really
bothered me."
An eight-year veteran Attleboro firefighter and
emergency medical technician, Marcotte found himself
contemplating Pope John Paul II's call to build a
culture of life.
"It just didn't sit right with me that I was just
sitting by with this in my back yard," he says.
Marcotte, 34, prayed about the situation at
Eucharistic adoration.
The result: He's now helping coordinate a 40 Days for
Life vigil outside that same clinic. The vigil is one
of 174 planned across the United States and Canada in
the lead-up to Election Day, Nov. 4.
The 40 Days for Life campaign seeks God's power to
end abortion. It consists of 40 days of prayer and
fasting, community outreach and peaceful public
witness outside abortion facilities. The effort is
modeled on biblical 40-day periods when God worked
miracles through Noah, Moses, Elijah, Jesus and the
disciples.
In Worcester, Mass., firefighter Paul Fullen will
head up another of the five Bay State vigils. Fullen
and his wife, Crystal, both 37, will coordinate
efforts outside Planned Parenthood there.
"We could have other firefighters involved that I
just don't know of," says David Bereit, founder and
national director of 40 Days for Life. "I get to know
people around this shared mission rather than by
their occupations, but it's certainly a natural fit.
Firefighters have already demonstrated they're
willing to sacrifice and risk their lives. Now
they're willing to sacrifice and risk embarrassment
and persecution.
"There's just as much heroism involved in trying to
save a life in the womb as in fighting fires in
burning buildings," adds Bereit.
Fullen, a 10-year veteran of the fire department,
sees the connection between his occupation and his
pro-life prayer work with new clarity. "Our job," he
says, "is to protect life and property."
"This is stepping out into the trenches," says
Marcotte. "Prayer is so important, but it's combining
prayer with getting out of my comfort zone that drew
me. I just bought into the whole campaign. The Holy
Spirit put it on my heart to trust that the Lord is
in charge -- and I'm excited about how he continues
to bless this campaign."
Bishop George Coleman of the Diocese of Fall River,
Mass., is among more than 20 Catholic bishops
nationwide actively supporting this pro-life
mobilization.
Bereit, says he, too, is energized by the campaign's
momentum. Since it began in Texas in 2004, two
Planned Parenthood centers have stopped doing
abortions and a third clinic has closed. At least 500
babies are known to have been saved.
"This comes at a crucial time now that abortion is in
the forefront of the political debate," Bereit points
out.
Marcotte admits he was wary of going public with his
convictions. "I knew I'd get razzing from some of the
guys, and I was a little nervous," he says. "Then I
thought: Whoa -- if I like being out of my comfort
zone by praying outside the clinic, then I shouldn't
worry about my comfort zone when it affects other
parts of my life. I've got to be consistent."
Fullen concurs. "My wife is expecting our seventh
child," he says with a smile, "so the other guys
think I'm crazy anyway."
"Many firefighters I know are not afraid of standing
up for what they believe in," says Father Michael
McNamara, a Boston archdiocesan priest who has headed
numerous pro-life prayer vigils. "Maybe it's because
when they understand their role in the protection of
life as a vocation from the Lord, they seek God's
guidance in their everyday lives.
"It's so in their character to view a situation with
a clear mind and logical thinking," adds Father
McNamara. "They're used to reflection and then action
as normal responses on the job."
Volunteers in their 30s like Marcotte and the Fullens
are typical nationwide, Bereit notes.
"You know, until I started with 40 Days for Life, I
was just like many people are now," says Fullen. "I
was uninformed. Hopefully, this will get people to
realize how the life issue is right up there in the
forefront for the upcoming elections."
Although 40 Days is ecumenical, Bereit says, it's now
almost 75% Catholic, thanks to early support from
pro-life leaders like Father Frank Pavone and Father
Thomas Euteneuer, along with coverage in the Register
and other Catholic media.
"Evangelicals are being inspired by their Catholic
brothers and sisters," Bereit says. "It's beautiful
to watch people who don't see eye-to-eye
theologically stand arm-in-arm to speak up for life."
Especially when they put their actions where their
words are, extinguishing the fires of the culture of
death -- one vigil at a time.
Read the whole article online at:
http://www.ncregister.com/site/article/16302/
-----------------------------------------------------
I thank Stephen and Paul for their willingness to
answer God's call.
And I thank God for raising up people -- just like
YOU -- all across North America who are also
answering God's call to "speak up for those who
cannot speak for themselves."
Together we are making a powerful impact!
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Ground Zero Report - Day 31 [10.24]
I went to the 40 days for life with my large “I regret lost fatherhood” sign. It was quite different than when I was carrying the “Pray to End Abortion” sign. I began to get these looks of pain from dozens of men. Men looked at me as if they wanted to say something but then looked down and kept walking. One young man stopped. He said,
Another man came up and said “what you are doing is incredibly courageous.” I said “It doesn’t feel that way.” I wish I had been courageous when I was 24. I wish I’d kept my children. He said “I’ll pray for you guys, it’s amazing what you are doing.” On the other end of the spectrum a man came up behind me without seeing my sign. He said, “Why are you here?” in an angry tone. I turned around and looked him in the eye holding my sign. “I’m here because I was involved with abortion, and it was the worst mistake I ever made in my life.” He started to argue. I said, “I don’t really want to argue here, but I’d be glad to meet with you any time to talk.” He said, “Why aren’t you open minded about abortion?” I said, “I was open minded, and I paid for it. Now I have perspective and I’m here.” He turned around and walked away in a huff. I could understand his pain and his angry cover-up.
I stopped at the grocery store on the way home and I still had my sign over my back as I walked around the grocery store. A woman in a wheel chair said, “good for you!” Another woman came up to me and told me she had had an abortion many years ago and just got clean and sober in 2006. She said, “No smoking, no toking, no drinking or poking.” I said “Congratulations, I’ve been sober for many years and it was a great decision. At some point in your recovery you may find yourself experiencing some pain over the abortion.” She stepped back and looked indignant saying, “don’t you assume you know me, I’ll never regret my abortion and it had NOTHING TO DO WITH MY ADDICTION!” Denial is deep. Lord have mercy.
All in all what I found is that each one of us can make a difference, one person at a time. “Oh Lord help me find favour with those who I talk to about abortion. And help us together build a Civilization of Love. Amen.”
David MacDonald
http://www.davidmacd.com/
_______________________
I went to do a couple of hours of sidewalk counselling today. Here's a breakdown of how it went.When I got there around noon, a young couple (@18 yrs) were waiting by the door. I went over and gave them some flyers. She looked them all over and seemed upset. Then they walked towards McDonald's. I was elated, thinking they had changed their minds. Unfortunately they came back. I went over to try and talk to them, telling them that I knew of a place where they'd see her through her pregnancy. She basically said thanks, but no thanks. Then she said she was waiting for her mom. She seemed nervous, it really looked like she was having second thoughts. When her mom showed up, they made a beeline for the door, her mom made to shield her daughter from me. Later, the mother and the boyfriend went out of the building, they were obviously talking about me. The mother gave me a dirty look when she came back in. In the meantime, there was a young woman with a pink/punkish hairstyle who often came out to speak to the security guard. I'm not sure what she does, but she seems to be involved with the abortuary. At one point, she came out and told Lucas that there was a woman who needed to come out for a smoke, but she was too upset to come since I was standing there. Lucas shielded her from my view. She was crying. There was another couple who went in, and she was also teary eyed, obviously had been crying. They didn't take any leaflets. Out of the four women I saw going in for abortions between noon and two o'clock, three of them had clearly been crying, seeming reluctant. So much for choice. - Doris
“I’ve been living on the streets, I have a bunch of kids, from different girls, I’ve been in trouble with drugs, bank robberies, and my girlfriend and I broke up when she was 4 months pregnant. She went and got an abortion. She killed our kid just because we broke up. I’ve since stopped all drugs and I’m going to a church now. I’m cleaning up my life. I want to be a good father.”
Another man came up and said “what you are doing is incredibly courageous.” I said “It doesn’t feel that way.” I wish I had been courageous when I was 24. I wish I’d kept my children. He said “I’ll pray for you guys, it’s amazing what you are doing.” On the other end of the spectrum a man came up behind me without seeing my sign. He said, “Why are you here?” in an angry tone. I turned around and looked him in the eye holding my sign. “I’m here because I was involved with abortion, and it was the worst mistake I ever made in my life.” He started to argue. I said, “I don’t really want to argue here, but I’d be glad to meet with you any time to talk.” He said, “Why aren’t you open minded about abortion?” I said, “I was open minded, and I paid for it. Now I have perspective and I’m here.” He turned around and walked away in a huff. I could understand his pain and his angry cover-up.
I stopped at the grocery store on the way home and I still had my sign over my back as I walked around the grocery store. A woman in a wheel chair said, “good for you!” Another woman came up to me and told me she had had an abortion many years ago and just got clean and sober in 2006. She said, “No smoking, no toking, no drinking or poking.” I said “Congratulations, I’ve been sober for many years and it was a great decision. At some point in your recovery you may find yourself experiencing some pain over the abortion.” She stepped back and looked indignant saying, “don’t you assume you know me, I’ll never regret my abortion and it had NOTHING TO DO WITH MY ADDICTION!” Denial is deep. Lord have mercy.
All in all what I found is that each one of us can make a difference, one person at a time. “Oh Lord help me find favour with those who I talk to about abortion. And help us together build a Civilization of Love. Amen.”
David MacDonald
http://www.davidmacd.com/
_______________________
I went to do a couple of hours of sidewalk counselling today. Here's a breakdown of how it went.When I got there around noon, a young couple (@18 yrs) were waiting by the door. I went over and gave them some flyers. She looked them all over and seemed upset. Then they walked towards McDonald's. I was elated, thinking they had changed their minds. Unfortunately they came back. I went over to try and talk to them, telling them that I knew of a place where they'd see her through her pregnancy. She basically said thanks, but no thanks. Then she said she was waiting for her mom. She seemed nervous, it really looked like she was having second thoughts. When her mom showed up, they made a beeline for the door, her mom made to shield her daughter from me. Later, the mother and the boyfriend went out of the building, they were obviously talking about me. The mother gave me a dirty look when she came back in. In the meantime, there was a young woman with a pink/punkish hairstyle who often came out to speak to the security guard. I'm not sure what she does, but she seems to be involved with the abortuary. At one point, she came out and told Lucas that there was a woman who needed to come out for a smoke, but she was too upset to come since I was standing there. Lucas shielded her from my view. She was crying. There was another couple who went in, and she was also teary eyed, obviously had been crying. They didn't take any leaflets. Out of the four women I saw going in for abortions between noon and two o'clock, three of them had clearly been crying, seeming reluctant. So much for choice. - Doris
Report from America - Day 32
The call to participate in 40 Days for Life is a call
to sacrifice.
Whenever I read the hundreds of daily e-mails in my
overflowing inbox and see the comments on the 40 Days
for Life blog, it always amazes me to see how many
people are hearing that call and taking it to heart.
Praying outside an abortion facility is not a
convenient thing to do. Yet many are embracing this
sacrifice with faith, hope -- and joy.
Bill is finding such joy in the witness of Patrick,
with whom he prays in front of an abortion facility
in Southfield, Michigan.
"He walks with the help of a cane or a walker," said
Bill, "but he is at this site several times a day and
for several hours each time. Patrick participates in
the wee hours of the morning when many others just
can't. Patrick is an inspiration."
Susan in Greenland, New Hampshire finds similar
inspiration from Vicki, a woman of around 80 years of
age who prays at the abortion center every day. "She
has a tremendous amount of physical pain but is on
her knees at the entrance to the driveway, usually
for an hour or two. This woman prays -- through tears
-- for this abortion clinic to close, as this is her
dying wish."
Pat needed someone quickly to fill a vacant hour at
the 40 Days for Life prayer vigil in Jacksonville,
Florida. So she called Marie's cell phone and asked
her if she could get over to the clinic and help.
Marie laughed, because she was attending her
husband's high school reunion in Las Vegas. But she
figured that if Pat was calling her to stand vigil,
she was meant to do so. Pat looked up Las Vegas on
the 40 Days for Life web site and gave Marie the
vigil location.
"No matter where we are, we are united in our
commitment to life," Pat said, "even on vacation."
There is no abortion center in Walker, Minnesota. But
that hasn't stopped the faithful people of this small
town from gathering together and holding a 40 Days
for Life to pray for an end to abortion.
"We are a town of approximately 1,069 people and have
been able to go 24/7 without much trouble," said
local 40 Days for Life coordinator Beth Bohannon.
"People are coming from minutes to hours away. God's
graces have been flowing in abundant amounts allowing
many people to be touched in special ways. We have a
cozy little white tent on the lawn of the courthouse
that provides for a peaceful atmosphere with a touch
of heaven. Many people of all faiths are uniting and
praying together like never before."
Beth said it's an awesome thought that a little town
in Northern Minnesota could be used in such a mighty
way to help transform the culture of death into a
culture of life. "God bless you all for listening to
the Holy Spirit's call to action in saying 'yes' --
by using your hands, feet and mouth to help us to be
part of this exciting movement in ending abortion in
America once and for all."
to sacrifice.
Whenever I read the hundreds of daily e-mails in my
overflowing inbox and see the comments on the 40 Days
for Life blog, it always amazes me to see how many
people are hearing that call and taking it to heart.
Praying outside an abortion facility is not a
convenient thing to do. Yet many are embracing this
sacrifice with faith, hope -- and joy.
Bill is finding such joy in the witness of Patrick,
with whom he prays in front of an abortion facility
in Southfield, Michigan.
"He walks with the help of a cane or a walker," said
Bill, "but he is at this site several times a day and
for several hours each time. Patrick participates in
the wee hours of the morning when many others just
can't. Patrick is an inspiration."
Susan in Greenland, New Hampshire finds similar
inspiration from Vicki, a woman of around 80 years of
age who prays at the abortion center every day. "She
has a tremendous amount of physical pain but is on
her knees at the entrance to the driveway, usually
for an hour or two. This woman prays -- through tears
-- for this abortion clinic to close, as this is her
dying wish."
Pat needed someone quickly to fill a vacant hour at
the 40 Days for Life prayer vigil in Jacksonville,
Florida. So she called Marie's cell phone and asked
her if she could get over to the clinic and help.
Marie laughed, because she was attending her
husband's high school reunion in Las Vegas. But she
figured that if Pat was calling her to stand vigil,
she was meant to do so. Pat looked up Las Vegas on
the 40 Days for Life web site and gave Marie the
vigil location.
"No matter where we are, we are united in our
commitment to life," Pat said, "even on vacation."
There is no abortion center in Walker, Minnesota. But
that hasn't stopped the faithful people of this small
town from gathering together and holding a 40 Days
for Life to pray for an end to abortion.
"We are a town of approximately 1,069 people and have
been able to go 24/7 without much trouble," said
local 40 Days for Life coordinator Beth Bohannon.
"People are coming from minutes to hours away. God's
graces have been flowing in abundant amounts allowing
many people to be touched in special ways. We have a
cozy little white tent on the lawn of the courthouse
that provides for a peaceful atmosphere with a touch
of heaven. Many people of all faiths are uniting and
praying together like never before."
Beth said it's an awesome thought that a little town
in Northern Minnesota could be used in such a mighty
way to help transform the culture of death into a
culture of life. "God bless you all for listening to
the Holy Spirit's call to action in saying 'yes' --
by using your hands, feet and mouth to help us to be
part of this exciting movement in ending abortion in
America once and for all."
Friday, October 24, 2008
Report from America - Day 31
WOW!
I just got off the phone with Shawn Carney on our
national team who is in the midst of 40 Days for Life
visits to New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island,
Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont.
He also just returned from visits to Michigan,
Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska.
Shawn gave me an electrifying report on what he is
experiencing at all these sites, and fortunately I
was able to audio record the call so I could share it
with you.
During this 17-minute high-energy update, you will
also hear a deeply touching story of something that
happened to Shawn earlier today related to a special
needs child and the Special Olympics. Powerful.
Before doing anything else, take a quick listen to
Shawn's amazing update at:
http://40daysforlife.com/blog/?p=161
Since well before this fall's 40 Days for Life
campaign began, I've been saying this is a critical
time for the United States.
It seems it is also a critical time for the entire
world, judging by the fact that two local campaigns
are under way in Canada, and I am receiving notes of
support from all around the globe.
Here are just a few...
There is much pro-life fervor evident in Latin
America. Monica in Mexico City sent greetings and
thanks to everyone participating in 40 Days for Life,
asking God to "bless this campaign and all people
involved. You have my prayers with all of you!"
"I live in Guatemala," wrote Geraldine, "but I am so
grateful for the 40 Days for Life campaign. I will be
accompanying you in prayer." Geraldine notes that a
number of nations in Latin America are being pressed
to legalize abortion. "Mexico has already begun
falling into it, and Ecuador is faced with the
approval of its pro-abortion constitutional
amendment. But God has raised up soldiers to fight in
Christ's name all over the world."
In Puerto Rico, Brunhilda has been praying and
fasting. "We have also spread the word among
Christians from different churches and they joined us
in our prayers to end abortions," she wrote. "Keep
going and God bless you all!"
There are signs of hope in Europe. Gabriella wrote to
salute her 81-year-old mother, who taught religion in
Hungary for many years. "We started praying and
fasting together for 40 Days for Life," she said,
"and now she is organizing two praying groups in
Budapest."
And there is breaking news coming out of Northern
Ireland. We had received numerous requests for prayer
for this country, where 40 Days for Life vigils were
conducted in the spring. Abortion is not legal in
Northern Ireland, however there was an aggressive
effort to extend the United Kingdom's abortion law to
Northern Ireland to legalize the barbaric practice.
Eric Scheidler, the leader of the current 40 Days for
Life campaign in Aurora, Illinois was there on the
ground in Northern Ireland with Bernadette Smyth, the
leader of the previous 40 Days for Life campaign, who
organized a massive rally in Belfast on Saturday.
Following the rally, Eric e-mailed me this report:
"Victory in Northern Ireland! The U.K. Parliament in
Westminster chose NOT to impose abortion on Northern
Ireland. They could see that such a move would
endanger the fragile political situation there."
Praise the Lord!
In the Pacific region, many of the cultural
indicators Americans are concerned with are also
being noted in New Zealand, where Sue Rowe has been
working to organize a 40 Days for Life effort.
"All these pointers have brought abortion back into
the public's attention," she told the New Zealand
Catholic newspaper. "With all these things tying
together, now is the time."
"Thank you so much for allowing me this opportunity
to be involved in 40 Days for Life," said Fe in the
Philippines. "God is so good! I know and I trust that
with this worldwide effort, abortion will finally end
in America and throughout the world!"
Isn't it amazing what God has done with the tiny
seeds that were planted just four short years ago
with the first 40 Days for Life campaign in Texas?
WOW!
I just got off the phone with Shawn Carney on our
national team who is in the midst of 40 Days for Life
visits to New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island,
Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont.
He also just returned from visits to Michigan,
Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska.
Shawn gave me an electrifying report on what he is
experiencing at all these sites, and fortunately I
was able to audio record the call so I could share it
with you.
During this 17-minute high-energy update, you will
also hear a deeply touching story of something that
happened to Shawn earlier today related to a special
needs child and the Special Olympics. Powerful.
Before doing anything else, take a quick listen to
Shawn's amazing update at:
http://40daysforlife.com/blog/?p=161
Since well before this fall's 40 Days for Life
campaign began, I've been saying this is a critical
time for the United States.
It seems it is also a critical time for the entire
world, judging by the fact that two local campaigns
are under way in Canada, and I am receiving notes of
support from all around the globe.
Here are just a few...
There is much pro-life fervor evident in Latin
America. Monica in Mexico City sent greetings and
thanks to everyone participating in 40 Days for Life,
asking God to "bless this campaign and all people
involved. You have my prayers with all of you!"
"I live in Guatemala," wrote Geraldine, "but I am so
grateful for the 40 Days for Life campaign. I will be
accompanying you in prayer." Geraldine notes that a
number of nations in Latin America are being pressed
to legalize abortion. "Mexico has already begun
falling into it, and Ecuador is faced with the
approval of its pro-abortion constitutional
amendment. But God has raised up soldiers to fight in
Christ's name all over the world."
In Puerto Rico, Brunhilda has been praying and
fasting. "We have also spread the word among
Christians from different churches and they joined us
in our prayers to end abortions," she wrote. "Keep
going and God bless you all!"
There are signs of hope in Europe. Gabriella wrote to
salute her 81-year-old mother, who taught religion in
Hungary for many years. "We started praying and
fasting together for 40 Days for Life," she said,
"and now she is organizing two praying groups in
Budapest."
And there is breaking news coming out of Northern
Ireland. We had received numerous requests for prayer
for this country, where 40 Days for Life vigils were
conducted in the spring. Abortion is not legal in
Northern Ireland, however there was an aggressive
effort to extend the United Kingdom's abortion law to
Northern Ireland to legalize the barbaric practice.
Eric Scheidler, the leader of the current 40 Days for
Life campaign in Aurora, Illinois was there on the
ground in Northern Ireland with Bernadette Smyth, the
leader of the previous 40 Days for Life campaign, who
organized a massive rally in Belfast on Saturday.
Following the rally, Eric e-mailed me this report:
"Victory in Northern Ireland! The U.K. Parliament in
Westminster chose NOT to impose abortion on Northern
Ireland. They could see that such a move would
endanger the fragile political situation there."
Praise the Lord!
In the Pacific region, many of the cultural
indicators Americans are concerned with are also
being noted in New Zealand, where Sue Rowe has been
working to organize a 40 Days for Life effort.
"All these pointers have brought abortion back into
the public's attention," she told the New Zealand
Catholic newspaper. "With all these things tying
together, now is the time."
"Thank you so much for allowing me this opportunity
to be involved in 40 Days for Life," said Fe in the
Philippines. "God is so good! I know and I trust that
with this worldwide effort, abortion will finally end
in America and throughout the world!"
Isn't it amazing what God has done with the tiny
seeds that were planted just four short years ago
with the first 40 Days for Life campaign in Texas?
WOW!
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Never Too Late To Stop the Killing
The 40 Days for Life Campaign has passed the 30 day mark. Our prayers and sacrifices have produced tangible results, by the grace of God - not only in terms of saving the lives of unborn children, but also bearing witness to the public at large who have been surprisingly and overwhelmingly supportive. Even the early morning crew from 12-4AM have stories to share, and their witness is even more powerful when there are few people around to notice.
And so now we turn to the abortion workers at the Abortion Mill, from the abortionist himself who is actually doing the killing to the "abortion counsellor" to the manager, Ms. Joan Wright.
All of us here at 40 Days for Life have a simple invitation to all of you:
Just get up from your chairs. Drop your instruments. Walk out the door. Come across the street to meet us. Let us pray with you. Let us help you find true freedom that only God can give you. Come, find mercy and forgiveness.
You can be free from all the guilt and the weight of sin on your conscience. Listen to that still, small voice. You know that what you are doing is very wrong. God can forgive you of everything you've done so that your sins might be as white as snow. But you must ask. You must make that first step.
We're here with open arms. It's never too late. Yes, God can be that loving and merciful. Just think...all the abortions you've ever committed or counselled...all the pain and suffering inflicted on your victims...can be forgiven.
Walk away and never look back.
_____________________
No person, no matter how "enmeshed in vice, ensnared by the allurements of pleasure, a captive in exile… fixed in mire… distracted by busyness, afflicted with sorrow… and counted with those who go down into hell—every soul, I say, standing thus under condemnation and without hope, has the power to turn and find it can not only breath the fresh air of the hope of pardon and mercy, but also dare to aspire to the nuptials of the Word." — St. Bernard of Clarivaux
And so now we turn to the abortion workers at the Abortion Mill, from the abortionist himself who is actually doing the killing to the "abortion counsellor" to the manager, Ms. Joan Wright.
All of us here at 40 Days for Life have a simple invitation to all of you:
LEAVE.
Just get up from your chairs. Drop your instruments. Walk out the door. Come across the street to meet us. Let us pray with you. Let us help you find true freedom that only God can give you. Come, find mercy and forgiveness.
You can be free from all the guilt and the weight of sin on your conscience. Listen to that still, small voice. You know that what you are doing is very wrong. God can forgive you of everything you've done so that your sins might be as white as snow. But you must ask. You must make that first step.
We're here with open arms. It's never too late. Yes, God can be that loving and merciful. Just think...all the abortions you've ever committed or counselled...all the pain and suffering inflicted on your victims...can be forgiven.
Walk away and never look back.
_____________________
No person, no matter how "enmeshed in vice, ensnared by the allurements of pleasure, a captive in exile… fixed in mire… distracted by busyness, afflicted with sorrow… and counted with those who go down into hell—every soul, I say, standing thus under condemnation and without hope, has the power to turn and find it can not only breath the fresh air of the hope of pardon and mercy, but also dare to aspire to the nuptials of the Word." — St. Bernard of Clarivaux
Abortion Fight at the U.N.
C-FAM PUSHING BACK THE PRO-ABORTS -- SIGN ON TO HELP!
On December 10th, radical pro-abortion groups will present petitions asking the UN General Assembly to make abortion a universally recognized human right.
We have met the challenge and you can help.
We have initiated a petition drive that calls for governments to interpret the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as protecting the unborn child from abortion. Along with a coalition of pro-life groups from around the world, we will present our petitions at a press conference at UN headquarters.
So far, in only three weeks we have generated 46,417 names endorsing our petition; that is 15,000 a week! I now fully expect that we will present 100,000 names on December 10th, the 60th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
In order for this to happen, though, I need your help and I need it now.
If you have not signed the petition, do so now HERE or by going directly to http://www.c-fam.org/ and clicking on the icon "UN Petition for the Unborn Child." Then, after you have signed the petition, send this email or one of your own to ALL OF YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS!
If you have already signed the petition, send this email or one of your own to ALL OF YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS and urge them to sign it.
What we are trying to do is create a real global internet campaign that will shock the pro-abortion radicals at the UN on December 10th!So, please act now. Go HERE or here and sign the petition. Then send this message or one of your own to ALL OF YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
Ground Zero Report - Day 30 [10.23]
I must say, this morning at the mill was tough. There was an African couple and the woman looked to be around 5 months pregnant! Her belly protruded so much and I was shocked when she went in. They took the information, but they didn't talk to me. Every abortion is horrific, but there is something about knowing the tremendous pain that this little child will go through because of his/her size...and the horror this mom will face for years after delivering a dead baby. I can't imagine how she is going to feel as she walks out of the mill, womb empty, her stomach visibly smaller and knowing her little one will never see the light of day. She will never forget her child, and I can't imagine how that must feel. All of these mothers are forever separated from their children...Let us pray hard for these parents. "Forgive them Lord, for they know not what they do." - Nicole
_______________________
At Holy Family church in Hanover, Ontario we are doing a daily holy hour in support of the 40 Days for Life in Ottawa as well as other cities. These Holy Hours before the Blessed Sacrament are held at 3-4am as well as 3-4 pm. We have had good turnout. These hours were picked as they are the Divine Mercy Hour, 3:00 when Christ died on the cross for us. We pray for an end to abortion and for mercy on our country. Would you be able to give us an update of any babies saved at the Morgentaler abortuary? We would publish them in the Sunday bulletin encouraging more people to come and pray for this cause. Even though we are not physically present with you, we are there in mind , spirit and prayer. - Helen W.
_______________________
At Holy Family church in Hanover, Ontario we are doing a daily holy hour in support of the 40 Days for Life in Ottawa as well as other cities. These Holy Hours before the Blessed Sacrament are held at 3-4am as well as 3-4 pm. We have had good turnout. These hours were picked as they are the Divine Mercy Hour, 3:00 when Christ died on the cross for us. We pray for an end to abortion and for mercy on our country. Would you be able to give us an update of any babies saved at the Morgentaler abortuary? We would publish them in the Sunday bulletin encouraging more people to come and pray for this cause. Even though we are not physically present with you, we are there in mind , spirit and prayer. - Helen W.
Report from America - Day 30
When I sent you the prayer request yesterday about
the woman who is trying to get out of her job as a
medical worker at Planned Parenthood...
...I had NO IDEA how incredible -- and generous --
your response would be!
E-mail messages poured in from people all across the
country who are praying for this lady and nearly 100
people asked where they could send money to help her
get out of the abortion industry.
Your compassion and willingness to help this woman is
deeply touching!
I am in communication with the local 40 Days for Life
leaders to see if funds are still needed, and if so,
where to send them. I'll let you know as soon as I
hear anything.
With the overwhelming response we have received over
the last 24 hours, maybe a fund should be set up to
help many more people escape their jobs at Planned
Parenthood! :-)
You know, whenever I mention Planned Parenthood in
one of these messages, my mailbox immediately
overflows with more stories about the abortion chain.
A 40 Days for Life volunteer in Memphis, Tennessee
reports that four people were standing in prayerful
vigil outside the building in which a Planned
Parenthood abortion center is located.
A man walked up to the group and introduced himself
as a Planned Parenthood employee. "He became upset
and said they were harassing his 'customers' and
blocking access. They assuredly were not," said the
volunteer. "The man said if he received one more
complaint, he would call the police."
The group remained in prayer, and no one called the
police. "Note how the Planned Parenthood worker
referred to these mothers as customers," said the
volunteer. "He was upset because he was losing
business. Evidently, our prayerful presence is
affecting Planned Parenthood's 'customers,' and in
turn, Planned Parenthood's bottom line. God is
melting mothers' hearts. We are saving lives. Planned
Parenthood is losing business."
Don't ever think for a moment, however, that Planned
Parenthood is ready to throw in the towel. It is a
huge, resourceful organization that always finds
something else to try if one tactic fails to generate
a response. It's important to remain faithful, in
spite of whatever Planned Parenthood does in an
attempt to discourage you.
Mary in Sacramento focused on faithfully responding
to the call to pray, even though she felt a bit
overwhelmed when she first arrived outside a Planned
Parenthood facility as part of 40 Days for Life.
She quickly noticed that only two people were
standing vigil against this outpost of America's
abortion giant -- herself and her 2-year-old
daughter. "I thought I must look a little weird just
walking back and forth with no other prayer
warriors," she said. "But I did it."
Not long afterward, an 18-year-old girl arrived with
her boyfriend. "They talked to me for a long time and
were very open to listening," she said. "They still
kept their appointment. But I know she wants to have
this baby."
Mary felt like she needed some help, so she went to
the building next door, looking for a man there who
had been kind to her earlier. "I found him leaving
his shift with five other men, so I asked them all to
pray with me for the young girl. Immediately, they
all bowed their heads and prayed."
Mary told one of the men that abortion days at this
Planned Parenthood center were Tuesdays and
Thursdays. He sighed and said, "I wish I hadn't known
that. But those days will be different for me now."
"It was a great experience," Mary said. "These men
stopped to pray for one of God's special girls, and I
know Christ was with all of them. I thought my time
of quiet prayer would be uneventful -- but I was
wrong."
the woman who is trying to get out of her job as a
medical worker at Planned Parenthood...
...I had NO IDEA how incredible -- and generous --
your response would be!
E-mail messages poured in from people all across the
country who are praying for this lady and nearly 100
people asked where they could send money to help her
get out of the abortion industry.
Your compassion and willingness to help this woman is
deeply touching!
I am in communication with the local 40 Days for Life
leaders to see if funds are still needed, and if so,
where to send them. I'll let you know as soon as I
hear anything.
With the overwhelming response we have received over
the last 24 hours, maybe a fund should be set up to
help many more people escape their jobs at Planned
Parenthood! :-)
You know, whenever I mention Planned Parenthood in
one of these messages, my mailbox immediately
overflows with more stories about the abortion chain.
A 40 Days for Life volunteer in Memphis, Tennessee
reports that four people were standing in prayerful
vigil outside the building in which a Planned
Parenthood abortion center is located.
A man walked up to the group and introduced himself
as a Planned Parenthood employee. "He became upset
and said they were harassing his 'customers' and
blocking access. They assuredly were not," said the
volunteer. "The man said if he received one more
complaint, he would call the police."
The group remained in prayer, and no one called the
police. "Note how the Planned Parenthood worker
referred to these mothers as customers," said the
volunteer. "He was upset because he was losing
business. Evidently, our prayerful presence is
affecting Planned Parenthood's 'customers,' and in
turn, Planned Parenthood's bottom line. God is
melting mothers' hearts. We are saving lives. Planned
Parenthood is losing business."
Don't ever think for a moment, however, that Planned
Parenthood is ready to throw in the towel. It is a
huge, resourceful organization that always finds
something else to try if one tactic fails to generate
a response. It's important to remain faithful, in
spite of whatever Planned Parenthood does in an
attempt to discourage you.
Mary in Sacramento focused on faithfully responding
to the call to pray, even though she felt a bit
overwhelmed when she first arrived outside a Planned
Parenthood facility as part of 40 Days for Life.
She quickly noticed that only two people were
standing vigil against this outpost of America's
abortion giant -- herself and her 2-year-old
daughter. "I thought I must look a little weird just
walking back and forth with no other prayer
warriors," she said. "But I did it."
Not long afterward, an 18-year-old girl arrived with
her boyfriend. "They talked to me for a long time and
were very open to listening," she said. "They still
kept their appointment. But I know she wants to have
this baby."
Mary felt like she needed some help, so she went to
the building next door, looking for a man there who
had been kind to her earlier. "I found him leaving
his shift with five other men, so I asked them all to
pray with me for the young girl. Immediately, they
all bowed their heads and prayed."
Mary told one of the men that abortion days at this
Planned Parenthood center were Tuesdays and
Thursdays. He sighed and said, "I wish I hadn't known
that. But those days will be different for me now."
"It was a great experience," Mary said. "These men
stopped to pray for one of God's special girls, and I
know Christ was with all of them. I thought my time
of quiet prayer would be uneventful -- but I was
wrong."
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Dropping Like Flies?
COUNSELLOR INTERESTED IN WOMEN’S HEALTH
Ad ID: 79854617 Visits: 203
Street address: 65 bank st, ottawa, on, k1p5n2 View map
Location: Ottawa Date Listed: 10-Oct-08
The Morgentaler Clinic
65 Bank Street, 3rd Floor
Ottawa, On
K2P 5N
(613) 567-9128 Fax
ATTENTION:
COUNSELLOR INTERESTED IN WOMEN’S HEALTH
$24/per hour
Required Immediately
We require a Part Time Counselor. If you are interested in working in the area of women’s reproductive health, are pro-choice and would like to join our team, this is a part-time position working 5 hours per day Wednesdays Thursdays and Fridays to begin immediately. The preferred candidate has excellent patient assessment skills, experience in crisis intervention, and incorporates a woman centered approach to care. Please fax your resume to 613-567-9128 or by e-mail to mailto: jwright@yenott.com
Responsibilities:
· Assessment of patients prior to abortion
· Providing information, support, and advocacy for patients
· Discussing any issues that arise in a sensitive and compassionate manner
· Assisting patients with referrals to other relevant social services or health care providers.
· Providing contraceptive counseling
Qualifications:
· 3-5 years of counseling experience or equivalent.
· Demonstrated communication and problem solving skills
· Self motivated and ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team
· Family planning experience
· University degree in related field required
SOURCE
___________________________
I don't know if this ad is a result of our vigil campaign or not. It's unlikely, but possible. We don't know. The posting date is October 10. That would have been Day 17 of our campaign.
As for the ad itself, what's required is having good problem solving skills and being self motivated. Yeah, I guess to recommend the crushing of an unborn child, you'd have to be pretty motivated. If that's not the understatement of the year, I don't know what is.
As for shedding innocent blood, I guess now we know what $24/hour was worth 2000 years ago...about 30 pieces of silver.
Ad ID: 79854617 Visits: 203
Street address: 65 bank st, ottawa, on, k1p5n2 View map
Location: Ottawa Date Listed: 10-Oct-08
The Morgentaler Clinic
65 Bank Street, 3rd Floor
Ottawa, On
K2P 5N
(613) 567-9128 Fax
ATTENTION:
COUNSELLOR INTERESTED IN WOMEN’S HEALTH
$24/per hour
Required Immediately
We require a Part Time Counselor. If you are interested in working in the area of women’s reproductive health, are pro-choice and would like to join our team, this is a part-time position working 5 hours per day Wednesdays Thursdays and Fridays to begin immediately. The preferred candidate has excellent patient assessment skills, experience in crisis intervention, and incorporates a woman centered approach to care. Please fax your resume to 613-567-9128 or by e-mail to mailto: jwright@yenott.com
Responsibilities:
· Assessment of patients prior to abortion
· Providing information, support, and advocacy for patients
· Discussing any issues that arise in a sensitive and compassionate manner
· Assisting patients with referrals to other relevant social services or health care providers.
· Providing contraceptive counseling
Qualifications:
· 3-5 years of counseling experience or equivalent.
· Demonstrated communication and problem solving skills
· Self motivated and ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team
· Family planning experience
· University degree in related field required
SOURCE
___________________________
I don't know if this ad is a result of our vigil campaign or not. It's unlikely, but possible. We don't know. The posting date is October 10. That would have been Day 17 of our campaign.
As for the ad itself, what's required is having good problem solving skills and being self motivated. Yeah, I guess to recommend the crushing of an unborn child, you'd have to be pretty motivated. If that's not the understatement of the year, I don't know what is.
As for shedding innocent blood, I guess now we know what $24/hour was worth 2000 years ago...about 30 pieces of silver.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
The Trash Babies
Last week, I had an opportunity to head down to Ground Zero for a late evening shift. During the evening time slots, I like to go over to the other side of the street - just outside of Hell's entrance - to pray. After saying one decade of the Rosary, I made my way towards the entrance to the abortuary and started to pray. During this particular night, there was a pile of garbage bags just outside of the Abortion Mill. I guess it was garbage night for the Mill. As I was praying, my mind wandered a bit and my gaze eventually fell on those garbage bags. Normally, garbage would not be that remarkable, but in the context of the grizzly act of abortion and our vigil campaign, it could not help but take on an added level of significance for me.Where, I wondered, do the "doctors" at the Mill deposit unborn children for "disposal"? Are they
burned in some incinerator somewhere? Or are they simply added to the regular "medical waste" pile? Who picks them up? Is there a company that specializes in disposing of aborted babies? Do the Mill workers deposit the little bodies in some kind of "industrial, medical garbage bag", and let the collectors in from the back door? Have back alley abortions been replaced with back alley disposals?Or, is it more lucrative than that? We know there are big dollars in the abortion business. According to research by the paper Le Droit in 2002, Morgentaler has grossed an estimated $11 million a year from his private, for-profit abortion facilities across the country. I wonder how much the one on Bank Street scrapes in? And that's only on the front end. What about on the back end? Are there buyers for unborn children's organs or baby parts? It's not implausible considering the current state of embroyonic stem cell research. I'm sure that if it's not happening now, it could very well happen in the future. It's an emerging market, you know.
As I sat there gazing at those garbage bags, and waves of grief and disgust blew over me, I wondered about the expression on their little faces as they were murdered. The horror...the pain...the sadness. What is it like, I wonder, to be unwanted and unloved to such a degree that someone wants to kill you while someone else profits from it? Our elderly people will soon be finding out when euthanasia is legalized, no doubt. And even when the abortionists do it, they don't afford you even the slightest human dignity, as your sacred little body is carted off like some piece of garbage, thrown to the curb, to await your final trip to the dump or to the incinerator or to some labratory or to God knows where.
But you are not garbage, even if they treat you like you are. As long as we witness to your dignity and worth, little one, they will never be able to completely erase your humanity or your personhood. They'll forget you, but we never will.
These 40 Days is a small reminder to that.
- JohnP.
Report froom America - Day 29
On Saturday a medical worker at a Planned Parenthood
abortion center where a 40 Days for Life campaign is
happening approached the prayer volunteers outside.
She said that Planned Parenthood had told its workers
that they would be immediately fired if they ever
talked to those on the sidewalk, but she felt drawn
to them -- and she shared that she desperately wants
out of her job.
She explained that after she started working at
Planned Parenthood earlier this year, the abortion
business assigned her the gruesome task of counting
the baby body parts following each abortion to make
sure everything was removed from the mother.
What she has seen inside the walls of Planned
Parenthood is horrific.
She then shared that several weeks ago a young woman
sat before her registering for an abortion and said,
"I'm so conflicted, should I do this or not?"
She leaned forward and quietly told her, "Don't do
this." The girl left, her baby alive within her.
A co-worker overheard and reported her to the
abortion center's supervisor who wrote her up and put
a stern warning in her employment file.
She asked the 40 Days for Life prayer volunteers if
she could meet Monday with someone who might be able
to help her -- and the time she had available was the
exact time that Jim Pinto, pastoral associate for
Priests for Life, was there in town for his visit to
the 40 Days for Life location.
Jim stopped everything else to pray for her, with
her, and over her. He also connected her with an
organization called The Centurions that helps to
bring abortion providers out of the abortion industry
where they can find forgiveness and healing in Christ
and restore their sense of self-worth.
The 40 Days for Life volunteers are now taking up a
collection to provide for her short-term needs so she
can leave her job immediately and they are helping
her find another job quickly since she is the sole
provider for her four daughters and needs income.
There is a real possibility that these
faithful 40 Days for Life volunteers may be able to
help her walk away from the abortion industry TODAY!
Praise God for what He is doing in this woman's life,
and please keep her -- and this situation -- in your
prayers throughout the day.
abortion center where a 40 Days for Life campaign is
happening approached the prayer volunteers outside.
She said that Planned Parenthood had told its workers
that they would be immediately fired if they ever
talked to those on the sidewalk, but she felt drawn
to them -- and she shared that she desperately wants
out of her job.
She explained that after she started working at
Planned Parenthood earlier this year, the abortion
business assigned her the gruesome task of counting
the baby body parts following each abortion to make
sure everything was removed from the mother.
What she has seen inside the walls of Planned
Parenthood is horrific.
She then shared that several weeks ago a young woman
sat before her registering for an abortion and said,
"I'm so conflicted, should I do this or not?"
She leaned forward and quietly told her, "Don't do
this." The girl left, her baby alive within her.
A co-worker overheard and reported her to the
abortion center's supervisor who wrote her up and put
a stern warning in her employment file.
She asked the 40 Days for Life prayer volunteers if
she could meet Monday with someone who might be able
to help her -- and the time she had available was the
exact time that Jim Pinto, pastoral associate for
Priests for Life, was there in town for his visit to
the 40 Days for Life location.
Jim stopped everything else to pray for her, with
her, and over her. He also connected her with an
organization called The Centurions that helps to
bring abortion providers out of the abortion industry
where they can find forgiveness and healing in Christ
and restore their sense of self-worth.
The 40 Days for Life volunteers are now taking up a
collection to provide for her short-term needs so she
can leave her job immediately and they are helping
her find another job quickly since she is the sole
provider for her four daughters and needs income.
There is a real possibility that these
faithful 40 Days for Life volunteers may be able to
help her walk away from the abortion industry TODAY!
Praise God for what He is doing in this woman's life,
and please keep her -- and this situation -- in your
prayers throughout the day.
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