Pro-lifers have a major advantage over abortion supporters: our willingness to make sacrifices.
The abortion rights movement is a fundamentally selfish cause, which means that abortion advocates simply can't match 40 Days for Life participants' commitment and intensity.
40 Days for Life general counsel Matt Britton witnessed that self-sacrificial spirit during his recent visit to Lutherville, Maryland.
"Lindsay is extremely dedicated and drives over an hour every day to the vigil after working all night," Matt said. "And Washington, D.C., vigil leader Michael was kind enough to take the train up to attend my Lutherville vigil visit as well."
Years ago, the Lutherville campaign convinced the abortion business's landlord not to renew the abortion facility lease. The abortionist moved, retired, and sold the business to a new owner--but Lindsay and her team remain the constant.
They have been particularly effective at reaching out to men, providing alternatives to abortion.
One couple visited the abortion facility with seven or eight children in tow. "The husband and many children were lined up outside," Matt reported. "A heartbreaking sight, indeed."
And a reminder of why it's so critical to show up and pray.
"Lindsay has a very solid core team with a full complement of pro-life materials, signs, and literature that is attracting the attention of abortion-minded women," Matt added.
Rogers, Arkansas
Abortion is largely illegal in "the Natural State," but Denise, Sheila, and their team aren't going away until Planned Parenthood goes away.
They demonstrated their self-sacrificial commitment by praying in 40 mile-per-hour winds!
"Been slapped in the face by our signs," they said. "But we're hanging in here!"
Cincinnati, Ohio
After the first nationally coordinated 40 Days for Life campaign wrapped up way back in 2007, Brian Gibson from Pro-Life Action Ministries encouraged us to add a Lenten campaign.
And while his Minnesota roots might lead him to dispute that a campaign beginning in February is a "spring" campaign, Brian has been a key leader at the St. Paul vigil ever since. He recently visited Cincinnati and spoke at a prayer rally led by Mary--who was named the 40 Days for Life leader of the year in 2025!
The combination of Brian and Mary made for a powerful event. "One of our best," Mary reflected. "Brian emphasized that we must be present at the abortion site because prayer is powerful, but our presence AND prayer is even more powerful."
Brian also reminded prayer warriors that their presence doesn't just impact abortion-bound women and the general public, but also vigil participants themselves. "We experience real spiritual growth when we come out to the sidewalk to pray," Mary commented.
Jesus said to them, "Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men." Then they abandoned their nets and followed him.
--Mark 1:17-18
Lord, we pray that you might grant each of us the courage to follow your will, regardless of the personal cost. You made your disciples Simon and Andrew into “fishers of men” so that they could bring other people closer to you. Help us to do the same. We ask that you bless all people in the pro-life movement by reminding them that you are with them. Help them to carry out their earthly mission in a way that reflects your eternal love. Amen.
