As the 40 Days for Life bus pulled up to the kickoff event outside Planned Parenthood in San Antonio, the team onboard was greeted in both English and Spanish.

And the greeting was returned in both languages.

"It was great to see so many Spanish-speaking volunteers," said Steve Karlen, 40 Days for Life's North American campaign director, "many of whom had come out to the sidewalk -- to pray for an end to abortion -- for the first time."

San Antonio was one of the 89 cities that took part in the first nationally-coordinated 40 Days for Life campaign in 2007 ... and this new vigil marks the 17th time this city has participated.

The enthusiasm remains high ... and it's always encouraging to see brand-new volunteers joining in the prayer and fasting at a well-established campaign.

David Brandao, COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

With 40 Days for Life, David wears many hats. Prior to joining the 40 Days for Life team, he was an award-winning radio and TV journalist. He has also served as a board member for a pregnancy help center and as publications director for a major national pro-life organization.