John,

When you pray at a 40 Days for Life vigil, you don't always see your prayers being answered--at least right away. And that's okay.

"We know God has done much over the years through 40 Days for Life campaigns," wrote Flora, the campaign leader in Watertown, New York. "Our faith is 'the evidence of things not seen'" (Hebrews 11:1).

Nevertheless, Flora prayed that she would see a baby saved through her peaceful prayers on the sidewalk--and that prayer was answered!

A young couple approached Flora at the vigil to introduce their newborn baby.

"We knew we didn't have the right to take a life," they said.

But it was the presence of Flora and her team that gave them the strength to choose life.

"We have our first confirmed saved baby," Flora reflected. "Our presence and prayers in front of the abortion facility make a difference. Thank God for 40 Days for Life!"

This consolation came at the right time. Flora had been having a hard time getting people to sign up to pray.

"Then, suddenly, people started signing up," she said. "I had three pastors praying...in front of Planned Parenthood yesterday. They were so stirred that I know they will encourage the people of their church to get involved."

Mount Vernon, Washington

Every campaign, we get numerous reports of parents who return to the abortion facility years later to thank vigil participants for saving their children from abortion.

Tracey in Mount Vernon reported a new twist on this classic story after a woman pulled her car over to the sidewalk and rolled down the window to talk--and to say "thank you." 

"Because of someone like you, I was able to adopt my son," she said.

The child was in the back seat!

Salta, Argentina

An abortion-bound woman and her mother saw 40 Days for Life signs and immediately broke down crying.

Vigil participants engaged them, providing care, comfort, and prayers, which gave the woman the courage she needed to keep her child!

"With great joy, we share that this young woman, who was struggling with doubts about her pregnancy, has now chosen to say 'yes' to the life of her baby," shared Cristian, the Salta campaign leader.

Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

--Matthew 5:7-9



Lord, in your infinite mercy, bring healing and hope to those caught in the lies of the abortion industry. Answer my prayer for forgiveness on their behalf: "Thoroughly wash away my guilt; and from my sin cleanse me."

For life,

Shawn Carney

President & CEO, 40 Days for Life