John,

There are 78 million abortions in the world annually, making abortion the leading cause of death above ALL other causes combined.

Two-thirds of those abortions take place in Asia--but help is on the way. While Asia is the planet's least Christian populated continent, 40 Days for Life vigils are beginning to spread.

International campaign director Robert Colquhoun recently visited countries across Asia to accelerate the momentum.

The trip proved immediately fruitful, as Robert conducted pro-life outreach through television interviews, press conferences, meetings with pastors, and speaking at March for Life events.

"I am excited and look with eager anticipation to what God will do in the Asia-Pacific region," Robert said. "The initial signs have been extremely encouraging!"

Seoul, South Korea

South Korea has one of the globe's lowest birth rates...and highest rates of abortion, which was decriminalized in 2019.

"Behind the dazzling economic development, there is a growing contempt for life," said Bishop Titus Seo Sang-Bum. "The abortion problem is serious."

But even in a country that is far from pro-life, Robert's visit received positive media coverage. "Your campaigns here will be an inspiration for other people in the Asia-Pacific region," Robert said on CPBC News.

During Robert's visit, Bishop Job Yubi Koo expressed an interest in 40 Days for Life campaigns spreading from Seoul to the rest of the country. Another Christian leader, Pastor Lee Jon-rak--whose story of saving more than 2,000 lives from abortion and infanticide was made famous by the film The Drop Box--also expressed his support for 40 Days for Life on the Korean Peninsula.

Taiwan

With just 1.07 children per woman--about half the rate necessary to maintain a stable population--Taiwan's fertility has been reported as the lowest in the world.

But while Christians compose less than four percent of the country's population, local 40 Days for Life leader Sister Maria Fidelis has united 50 different Christian groups to join her vigils, which take place in the spring each year.

Robert spoke to 2,000 pro-lifers at Taiwan's March for Life in preparation for the country's next 40 Days for Life campaign. Both the local bishop and the mayor also addressed the crowd.

"The culture here does not like outspokenness," Robert explained. "Sister Maria Fidelis understands the necessary delicacy and challenges that come with a public campaign on a sensitive topic like abortion."

The Philippines

The Philippines are the most Christian country in Asia, and unborn children are protected by law.

But that doesn't mean all is well for life and family. The country just moved to liberalize its divorce laws, and abortion pills are easily accessible.

"A bill to legalize abortion will inevitably be introduced before long," Robert noted.

Robert attended a conference in Manila where the Philippines' major pro-life organization committed to leading an upcoming 40 Days for Life campaign.

Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her.”

--Luke 1:58

Dear Lord, thank you for the gift of friendship. Teach us to see your beauty in those around us, and give us the grace to serve our friends and neighbors. We ask you to especially bless the families and friends of expectant mothers. Help those who are close to expectant mothers to offer the compassionate care that Elizabeth’s friends did throughout her pregnancy. Help us never to close our eyes to women in need. Amen.

For life,

Shawn Carney
President/CEO, 40 Days for Life