NEWS RELEASE
Madison, WI – Madison will mark the conclusion of the nationwide 40 Days for Life campaign to end abortion with a prayer service outside of the East Side Madison Planned Parenthood located at 3706 Orin Road, at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, November 4th.
Madison is one of 89 communities throughout the country joined together outside of abortion centers, praying and fasting in solidarity for an end to abortion. Here in Wisconsin, the cities of Madison, Green Bay, Milwaukee and Grand Chute have all held 24 hour a day vigils since September 26th outside local abortion centers. In Madison, more than 300 people committed to pray outside of the Madison Planned Parenthood abortion center during 40 Days for Life.
“It is our hope that during these 40 Days for Life, the Madison community has awakened to the terrible reality of abortion and hearts have been touched,” said Amy Hying, coordinator for the 40 Days for Life Madison campaign.
Clergy from several different faith groups will be on hand to lead pro-life citizens in prayer for the concluding service. One local 40 Days for Life participant, Valerie Eilers, will also give her testimony Sunday on the impact the prayer vigil has had on her, as someone who has experienced the psychological pain of having gone through an abortion.
“I first heard about the 40 Days for Life campaign two months ago, and since that time, I questioned myself almost daily as to whether I’d be able to do it,” said Eilers. “The first time I went to the vigil site, I prayed for one hour while the clinic was closed. Nothing but grace can account for the near absence of fear I felt during that hour. I’ve gone back, not out of guilt or obligation but to pray empathetically and to show love for the people inside.”
Valerie will talk about her own experiences and about her child Hunter, who was lost to abortion.
“In the end, grace has abounded in my life during these 40 Days for Life. I feel newfound peace, and I think Hunter not only forgives me but is also proud that I’m standing up for other unborn babies and showing compassion to their young parents. My husband and I have met new friends, and we no longer feel so alone or isolated. Our relationship has deepened, as well as our faith lives. Through prayer, fasting, and community outreach, I’m confident that the lies and works of the culture of death are being put to death on a cross. When we cast aside what is evil, it is put to death, and new life rises from the ashes. I can testify that it’s true,” said Eilers.
To learn more about 40 Days for Life, visit www.40daysforlife.com.