The worldwide prayer campaign to end abortion, 40 Days for Life, is winding down and local organizers are hoping for a big turnout at the closing events April 11-12.
Ellen Sweeney, who has organized the prayer efforts at Family Planning Associates on north Seventh Street, said that activists in other states with bitter-cold weather are braving the brutal temperatures and praying outside clinics. They’ve managed to save many women and their babies from abortions.
“It’s important for people to be out here and give witness,” Sweeney said. “Even if they’ve never done it before, we’re hoping they will join us.”
The 40 Days for Life prayer effort provides a peaceful, prayerful presence outside abortion clinics all over the world. The movement began in Texas in 2004 and the organization’s website, www.40daysforlife.com, states that 6,749 lives have been saved by its efforts.
Eleven coordinated campaigns around the United States have taken place since 2004 in 481 cities.
Closing event details
Phoenix: 12 p.m. April 11, Family Planning Associates, 1331 N. 7th Street, Phoenix, AZ
Contact: Nancy at 40daysforlife@live.com or Ellen Sweeney 602-309-9498 ellensweeney319@yahoo.com
Tempe: 4 p.m.-6:30 p.m. April 11, Voices for the Voiceless united rally
Chandler: 2-3 p.m. April 12, family picnic
Contact: Anita Usher, anita40daysforlife333@gmail.com
Glendale: 7 p.m. April 12, Planned Parenthood, 5771 West Eugie Street, Glendale
Contact: Monica Jordan 602-615-0016 mambojordan@gmail.com