Due to abortion, this generation’s population is one third less than it should be. One third of this generation has been denied the most valued natural right: life. Abortion has catastrophic effects upon individuals and communities. The 40 Days for Life campaign strives to save lives and bring revival to the nation, and it’s taking place right here in Missouri!

Twice a year, in cities spanning the continental U.S., Coalition for Life leads 40 Days for Life. Currently taking place from March 5th to April 13th, this prolife movement involves prayer and fasting, peaceful vigils, and community outreach. Conveniently taking place during the Lenten season, Christians are encouraged to fast for forty days from foods or activities that will then challenge them to pray more for an end to abortion. Believing that 40 days is a Biblical consistency, those in affiliation with this program strive to utilize its significance. During the peaceful vigil, volunteers standing outside of abortion clinics (located in STL and St. Peters) hold signs, pray,and offer women entering the clinic free pregnancy options.

“40 Days for Life is an intensive effort designed to raise awareness, save lives, bring healing, and lead our nation to repentance for the sin of abortion,” according to the Coalition for Life website.

Originating in College Station, Texas in 1998, Coalition for Life began as a local pro-life group in opposition to the new Planned Parenthood abortion clinic. Three years later, after four people fervently prayed for an hour for God’s direction, the vision of the 40 Days for Life campaign was formed. Although the group experienced difficulty during the first few years, the exponential growth of the movement exceeded their preconceived expectations.

Coalition for Life’s vision entails more than an end to abortion, they are cultivating “a community that respects and defends all human life at all stages of life.” With over 140 partnering churches and organizations, Coalition for Life has significantly impacted the St. Louis community. In 2009, abortion rates dropped by 9.75%, which is the estimated equivalent of 603 saved lives.

Churches and organizations are given the opportunity to “Adopt-A-Day” during the forty-day period. At least two people must be present during each hour increment in front of the clinic from seven in the morning until seven at night.

For a detailed account of the founding of Coalition for Life and subsequently the 40 Days for Life campaign, check out the book 40 Days for Life by founders David Bereit and Shawn Carney. The book also contains various accounts of redemption through this powerful movement. For more information on how to get involved, visit Coalition for Life’s website at www.coalitionforlifestl.com.