Abortionist George Tiller was shot and killed at his church in Kansas Sunday morning. Vigil for Life condemns this act of violence and resolves to continue to follow the example set by civil rights leaders throughout history who have peacefully worked to ensure the dignity of every human being is respected. We also urge you to pray for the soul of Dr. Tiller, for his family, and for the repentance of his assailant.
While violence against abortionists is rare, Sunday’s events will almost certainly present major challenges for Vigil for Life and the rest of the pro-life movement. Abortion proponents have long sought to brand pro-lifers as extremists. Our silent prayers have been labeled "intimidation tactics." Our efforts to provide resources to women facing crisis pregnancies have been called "threatening."
Over the coming days, weeks and months, we can expect these false allegations to increase. It is possible-if not likely-that our government will crack down with unjust restrictions on our efforts. Just as our Lord accepted a Crown of Thorns from those who mocked and ridiculed Him and His defense of truth, those of you who courageously and generously give your time in prayer at Planned Parenthood and the Madison Surgery Center can expect to be persecuted.
Still, we ask you to stick with us as we humbly stand in defense of the defenseless. We have a great deal of work to do. It won’t be easy. The Lord’s work rarely is. And so we close with words of inspiration from blogger Fr. John Zuhlsdorf:
"This Pentecost Sunday remember that when the Apostles broke out of their room into the public square they did not go forth into safety or comfort. Filled with the Holy Spirit and focused on the mission Christ gave them, they went out with a clear identity into the public square."
Click here to view Vigil for Life’s statement to the media: http://www.vigilforlife.org/index.cfm?load=news&newsarticle=4&page=151