Planned Parenthood seems to have a different strategy everywhere the 40 Days for Life UNITED bus tour goes. Thursday, they closed their doors and avoided us. Friday, they brought out protesters in New York.
The presence of demonstrators at our first stop in Newburgh — with pink shirts and a big, pink “health care happens here” banner — only strengthened the resolve of the 40 Days for Life volunteers who joined us to pray.
One woman shared a moving testimony of her two abortions … and her intention to have a third, until illness prevented it. She kept that baby — and now has several grandchildren. Praise God!
The Poughkeepsie team opened the campaign with a Jericho march. While they haven’t confirmed any saved babies yet, they have seen indications that their prayerful presence is turning potential clients away.
Planned Parenthood in Albany called the police before we even arrived. Of course, our peaceful vigil was completely law-abiding, so that was that. Mary, a first-time 40 Days for Life leader, said that once she became aware of the abortion crisis, she had to stand up for life.
Faithful prayer warriors in Schenectady quickly forgave us for missing our exit and arriving 20 minutes late. These folks have clearly won the hearts of their community. On a very busy street, we witnessed many supportive honks and waves as people drove past the 40 Days for Life vigil.
When we arrived in Utica … so did the rain. But we still got a great welcome from faithful 40 Days for Life volunteers. This stop also featured speakers representing Silent No More and the Susan B. Anthony List.
Syracuse is the home of the first Planned Parenthood abortion center in the United States — and the volunteers here want to ensure that what started in Syracuse ends in Syracuse. The sidewalk at Friday night’s rally was packed. Bishop Robert Cunningham opened with prayer — and even signed the bus!
