The last line of defense…
Before Abby Johnson left Planned Parenthood, she was told that a peaceful presence outside of an abortion clinic can sometimes lead to a 75% appointment cancellation rate. For many, just seeing people witness in opposition to abortion is enough to prick their conscience, and save their baby.
But wouldn’t it be nice if a woman didn’t have to physically show up to an abortion facility to receive that prick? Unfortunately, most people see no visible signs of dissent to abortion in society besides that which takes place outside of the abortion clinic itself.
Not only is our presence downtown the last line of defense for life, unfortunately it is typically the only line of defense. This makes our work all the more critical to maintain.
Consider praying that those who regard themselves pro-life, especially those that lead the Church, feel the obligation to participate in and lead a proportionate, societal response to the monumental issue of abortion.
“Christ has no body but yours, no hands, no feet on earth but yours”
– Teresa of Avila
Andrew
Keep reading for today’s shift reports…
7:30-9:00 – Mary & Peggy
We didn’t take a picture of Peggy and I (sorry forgot) so here’s a picture of 7 hearts for the 7 people/souls that went into PP this morning
Our morning shift was unfortunately busy. Women starting arriving right at 8 am. By 9, at least 7 women/ couples seeking services at PP. No one would speak with us or accept literature. It was very sad to see but we prayed for each person going in and for the PP guard Stacy for her successful surgery and recovery. One regular woman passing by told us to “stop harassing women”— She often has such comments but doesn’t stop to engage in any conversation. Upon arriving at Little Lambs this morning to get the displays and signs, we discovered that the camera was not charged. It turned off immediately for low battery, so we left it charging for a later shift. When leaving at night , please make sure the battery and camera is charging. Mary
9:00-11:00 – Conrad & Julie
9 to 11 shift was fairly busy. The 7-9 shift was busy according to Mary and so it carried through this shift. At least 10 went in some unaccompanied some with a friend . Julie was able to speak with many of them and she also spoke with some who came out. Julie was a beacon for life!
We left very sad. Conrad
11:00-1:00 – Ken & Larry
Very busy day at PP! Lots of positive comments from passersby! Very few ladies accepted information or wanted to talk. One girl came out with two other girls, and her sweatshirt said, “Jesus Loves You!” Larry
1:00-3:00 – Judy, Chris & Kelley
I was joined today by many prayer warriors from St. John the Worker Parish- Arlene, Georgette, Thile, and Susan. Sidewalk Advocate Ed was there from the previous shift and was joined during our shift by Sidewalk Advocate Judy, also from St. Joseph the Worker Parish. As always, Kevin, my year-round prayer partner from Regina Coeli Parish, prayed with us. We prayed the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, the Loretto Litanies, and three Mysteries of the Rosary. There was steady traffic in and out of PP, with no one accepting literature. But that didn’t deter Ed or Judy from their holy outreach.
3:00-5:00 – Steve & Judy
Good crowd of pro-lifers when we arrived! Got to spend some time with Georgette and Mary Ann- beautiful witnesses! From 4-5 it was just Judy and I- although with Judy’s travels up and down the sidewalk, and across the street, I was alone with Our Lady much of the time… I think Judy probably got a couple of miles in! Lots of foot traffic meant lots of literature given out, and- except for one plainly despondent and angry (post-abortive?) young woman, many positive interactions. The banner of Our Lady of Guadaloupe continues to elicit conversations. “double takes” and even photo ops from passers-by- both on foot and in vehicles! Pray for her intercession for moms, abortion workers, and for our country under her patronage!