Amy Hying, an accountant for a local trucking company, uses a lot of spreadsheets. But one in particular is very important in her life right now. It’s the one she’s using for the 40 Days for Life campaign that begins September 26th.
The spreadsheet has 960 spaces, one for each hour of each day between September 26th and November 4th. At least two volunteers will be signing up for each of those hours, to pray in front of the Planned Parenthood abortion clinic at 3706 Orin Road on Madison’s east side. Madison is one of 89 cities in 33 states involved in the 40 Days for Life campaign. Milwaukee, Green Bay, and Appleton vigils are the other Wisconsin cities involved.
Amy says the campaign has the backing of both Wisconsin Right to Life and ProLife Wisconsin. And Madison churches are starting to get behind the movement. "It’s a big thing to bring all the denominations together," she says.
Madison was once the home of at least three abortion clinics, and the scene of some large-scale prolife demonstrations two decades ago. Now with only one clinic, there have been fewer demonstrations in recent years. There are still people who go to pray in front of the clinic though, something that Amy has done on a weekly basis for the past several years. "It isn’t always easy," she says.
Sidewalk counseling is not part of the plan for the 40 Days for Life campaign. In fact volunteers are being asked to sign a "statement of peace" that includes the assertions:
- I understand that graphic images and profanity are not allowed on any clothing or signs.
- I will not threaten, physically contact, or verbally abuse the employees, volunteers, or customers or anyone using the facility
"It’s all about prayer and fasting," Hying says. So far about 30 volunteers have signed up for shifts of varying links. Right now she is trying to connect with some men’s ministries, who might be interested in taking night shifts.
The leaders of the campaign note that 40 days is a significant time period for major changes to take place.
- Noah experienced a transformation during 40 days of rain.
- Moses was transformed by 40 days on Mount Sinai
- The spies were transformed as a result of 40 days in the Promised Land
- David was transformed by Goliath’s 40 day challenge
- Elijah was transformed when God gave him 40 days of strength from one meal.
- The city of Nineveh was transformed when God gave them 40 days to get their act together.
- The disciples were transformed after 40 days with Jesus following His resurrection.
An organizational/training meeting will be held tonight (Sept. 10th) at Madison’s International House of Prayer, 1714 Eagan Road. Another meeting will be held on the west side Thursday night, Sept. 13th, at St. Thomas Aquinas Church, 602 Everglade Drive. For more information, contact Amy Hying: 40DaysForLifeMadison@gmail.com or 698-3877. And check out the local website at http://www.40daysforlife.com/madison/.