“I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.” John 10:10
As we begin October, we see signs of death all around us. The flowers of summer die back, leaves fall to the ground, trees appear stark against gray skies, and the world seems to almost go into hibernation. Well, as easy as it would be to go into a bit of “hibernation” ourselves, that is not what we are called to do. As Jesus says in the above Scripture, He came so that we may have life and not just any kind of life - life to the full, life “abundantly” in some translations. Does that sound like hibernation? Nope. It sounds like we are commissioned to get out there and live our lives as outward signs of God in the world. But not just for our own benefit, also to ensure that all people - the unborn, the handicapped, the mentally challenged, the elderly, and those near death - are encouraged and allowed to live their lives to the fullest,. So, like we do in every October newsletter, we are placing the upcoming events section up top. Now you can find an event that inspires you to get out there and do something to promote the dignity of the kind of life that Jesus desires for us - Life to the full! News from September vigils in Wood Dale: ** During the month of September, we estimate that 45 women made a “choice” that ended a child’s life and changed their own lives forever. ** There were, however, 2 SAVES in September!
** For those children who lost their lives, they were loved and prayed for by our sidewalk counselors and prayer warriors so they did not die alone. ** Many women leaving the clinic received a pamphlet for post-abortive healing through Project Rachel. Our Saturday late shift sidewalk counselor has been full of the Spirit as she has reached out to and had conversations with several women and drivers lately. She could still use more prayer support on Saturdays from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm. Let us know if you could be there at this most important time of the vigil. ** Standing vigil is also a ministry to the wider community. Many days a passer-by will stop to ask us what we are doing there, providing an excellent opportunity to educate and inform. We have Human Life Alliance newspapers (www.humanlife.org) with tons of information for people to take home and really consider the facts. On one Thursday, Laura was able to talk to a dog-walker, a utilities man, and one of the many construction workers on Irving Park! This public ministry is one of the reasons why 40 Days for Life 24 - 7 prayer vigils are such a wonderful opportunity. Check for the one nearest you and step out in faith for an hour! ** Are you feeling called to join a prayer vigil at a clinic but nervous to take that first step? Please email or call us. We were once just like you! We would love to offer information, advice, and support. Maria: [email protected] or Laura: 847-651-4877. Pray for These Abortion Employees
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Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord. 1 Corinthians 15:58
A few weeks ago, a man brought his girlfriend to the clinic. She hustled in without a look our way, but he remained outside. We began talking to him, offering him hope, telling him of all the help available and the reality of the child in the womb. He told us that we were "wasting" our time. Those of you have stood in prayer at an abortion clinic I'm sure would passionately disagree. Every time we are out there God shows us in ways big and small that the sacrifice matters. Like the time last week that we were able to counsel a construction worker who didn't realize abortion was wrong despite being Catholic. Or the couple who spoke very little English and were referred to the clinic for an ultrasound. Our prayer warriors explained that this was not a safe place for their baby and brought them to Care Net for a free, safe ultrasound instead! Or the teen walking by on his way to football camp who stopped to offer us a donation. Then there's the fellowship of praying alongside people of all faiths for a common cause. Finally, there's the overwhelming sense of peace in knowing that you are working as a partner of God. Unfortunately, the story of the man does not end happily, but maybe a seed was planted by the kindness we showed him. No matter what you do for God, big or small, it is never a "waste." News from July and August vigils in Wood Dale: ** During the month of July, we estimate that 66 boys and girls were killed at Advantage Health Care. ** There were, however, 2 SAVES in July!
** We continue to pray for and attempt to connect with the abortion employees. A newer employee was willing to take one of the Abby Johnson letters offering hope and a way out of this place of death. We haven’t seen the woman since then and the last few weeks we haven’t seen the car either! We pray that God inspired her to find a life-affirming job or even seek help through “And Then There Were None.” ** We were encouraged to see the rare instance of a man fighting for his child’s life. A couple in their early 30’s with a rosary hanging on the rearview mirror pulled into the lot but just sat in the car talking for almost an hour. During that time, the group prayed fervently and our sidewalk counselor approached the car and saw the man’s face wet with tears. The woman, however, shouted at the counselor to go away. When the man confirmed that he wanted to keep the baby, the woman yelled at him to roll up the window. Sadly, he could not get through to her and she went inside to kill their other children’s brother or sister. Please pray for this man who fought and lost for his child’s life. ** During the month of August, we estimate that 76 of God’s precious, innocent children lost their lives before they had a chance to be born. ** However, we were blessed to witness 8 SAVES in August! This is the highest we’ve ever seen in one month. Praise God! - A young man in his early 20's was pacing in the parking lot as his girlfriend came in and out of the clinic. All the while, Laura offered them information about Care Net and all of the emotional and physical support available to them. They would not engage. Finally, Laura told him to be a hero for his child and get his girlfriend out of there. Much to her surprise, that is exactly what he did. They came out quickly and left! - On that same Thursday, soon after the first couple left, a young black woman came out to her car to talk to her father who was waiting for her in the car. Laura called out a message of hope again. A little while later the two of them left the clinic smiling and gave Laura a thumbs up when she asked if she was keeping the baby. - On Saturday, August 13, there were 3 saves! There was much rejoicing in heaven and on earth that day and we continue the praise. ** Unfortunately, not all children were as lucky. A grandmother brought her 20-something year old granddaughter to abort her child, the grandmother’s great-grandchild! The grandmother explained to us that the young woman already had 2 children and did not want another because she is “going through a tough time.” Sadly, this woman’s times are only going to get tougher after the abortion as so many women suffer devastating effects, physical (infertility, breast cancer, uterus cancer, hemorrhaging), emotional (depression, suicidal thoughts, drug/alcohol abuse, eating disorders, guilt, flashbacks, panic attacks), and spiritual (loss of faith, feelings of unforgiveness and unworthiness of God’s love). If you or someone you know has experienced the pain of abortion, please let them know there is hope and healing: www.HopeAfterAbortion.com. ** Are you feeling called to join a prayer vigil at a clinic but nervous to take that first step? Please email or call us. We were once just like you! We would love to offer information, advice, and support. Maria: [email protected] or Laura: 847-651-4877. Pray for These Abortion Employees
For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. Ephesians 3:14–17a
This Scripture reminds us that every family "derives its name" from God the Father. We all belong to Him and are united as his children. As we enjoy summer, we pray that you are finding more opportunities to spend time with your families and children to encourage one another in living in God's light. For this, we offer a prayer from Plough.com, a Christian publishing company: Lord our God, you are our Father, and we human beings know that our innermost hearts belong to you. Hold us firmly through your Spirit, we pray, so that we do not live on the level of our lower natures but remain true to the calling you have given us, the high calling to what is eternal. May all our experiences work in us for good, bringing us the joyful certainty that you rule us with your Spirit, that you further the good everywhere in the world and make more and more people sensitive to what is good, right, and perfect. Amen. News from June vigils in Wood Dale: ** During the month of June, we estimate that 68 helpless children were killed at Advantage "Health Care." ** There were, however, 2 SAVES in June! - Both were on the same Saturday, June 25. Thanks in part to a group from Mission San Juan Diego in Arlington Heights who has been faithfully praying on Saturdays starting at 6:30 am, sometimes with a group of 10 prayer warriors! - The first save was when 2 women (possibly mother and daughter) came out of the clinic smiling, long before Doctor Vinod Goyal arrived to kill the babies. - The second save was more dramatic. The group from Mission San Juan often walks along the sidewalk outside the clinic praying. However, Christina had a feeling that day that she should stand alone at the corner instead of joining the prayer procession. A woman from the clinic came walking up to her crying and repeating, "I didn't do it!" She spent time talking to Christina and hearing the good news of all the support available to her. We praise God for this woman, her baby, and Christina's faithfulness in listening to God. ** Could you help out at the Saturday morning vigil? We need prayer coverage from 9:30 - 11:00 am. After the great group from San Juan Diego leaves, a prayer warrior has been alone several Saturdays to offer comfort and counseling to the post-abortive women. Please prayerfully consider joining her in this vital ministry to these women who need our love after the abortion more than ever. For more info. on Project Rachel, a post-abortive healing ministry: www.hopeafterabortion.com ** A young man named RJ brought his girlfriend to the clinic to kill a child. When I offered help to him, his first question was, "Are you going to give us a place to live?" He was surprised to hear that the answer is YES, thanks to homes like The Well of Mercy (www.thewellofmercy.com), Heather's House (www.helpaidforwomen.org/residential), and Martha and Mary Maternity House (www.marthamarychicago.org). However, that was not really the problem I found out. He told me that his girlfriend cheated on him and so the baby is not his. At this point, I noticed that he clearly worked out and asked him about it. He said, "Yeah, I'm strong. I'm a boxer." That's when I tried to help him see that a real man's strength comes from inside. RJ politely thanked me and said he saw what I meant but could not change his girlfriend's mind. Please pray for all men to understand their God-given role as protector of women and children. There are websites specifically geared to helping men after abortion: www.menandabortion.net ** Summer is perfect for prayer vigils! Children welcome! We are considering extended our vigil hours to 12:00 noon, because we don't always see all of the women leave. We feel it is so important to reach these post-abortive women who so desperately need a caring face and offer of post-abortive healing when they exit the clinic. Please email or call if you can offer time at any time of the vigil, 6:30 am - 12:00 pm. Maria: [email protected] or Laura: 847-651-4877. Pray for These Abortion Employees
We love because he first loved us. This is the commandment we have from Him: whoever loves God must also love his brother. 1 John 4:19 & 21
Jesus Christ is the manifestation on Earth of God's eternal love for us. The question is, "What will be my response to God's gift of love?" Will I love others with that same self-sacrificing love or will I only love those who love me or love when it is easy? In this Scripture, we find one of the best responses we can give when someone asks, "Why stand vigil at an abortion clinic?" We are compelled to be that continued outward sign of God's love on Earth, as Jesus was over 2000 years ago. Our love extends to the women, men, children, and workers who come to the clinic. Sometimes that love requires sacrifice from us because to love always requires action. What will be your action of love for others today? It could be as simple as a smile to a passer-by or text or call to someone who has been on your mind. Maybe it is speaking kindness instead of a comeback when someone speaks sharp words to us. Or maybe it is a bigger sacrifice of time to be part of one of the vigils or events listed in this update. Pray about it and let the Lord lead you. Important Action Alert to Protect Conscience Rights A dangerous bill has been passed both Illinois houses and now awaits Gov. Rauner's signature. SB 1564 requires healthcare providers, including employees of Crisis Pregnancy Centers, to refer patients to abortion clinics. Please contact Gov. Rauner as soon as possible to voice your concerns. You can find his number here and also sign a petition: http://illinoisrighttolife.org/protectmyconscience/ There is also more information at the website so you can speak to others with knowledge. We must not be silent. Those with the other perspective aren't! News from April and May vigils in Wood Dale: ** During the month of April, we estimate that 67 babies were murdered by a man calling himself a "doctor." ** There were, however, 4 possible SAVES in April! - Aisha told one of our counselors through tears that she "could not destroy human life." We thank God that her eyes were opened to the truth that even the tiniest newly conceived baby is still human. - Two young women went into the clinic but came out only 10 minutes later to sit and talk in their car from about half an hour before leaving! We pray they found support to stay strong in the decision. - An Hispanic couple found out they were having twins and decided to give them life! Our Spanish-speaking Saturday counselor was able to speak with them as they shared the good news with tears of joy. ** During the month of May, we estimate that 73 mothers paid to have the child within them killed, some of them the day before Mother's Day. **One of these women is Alice. She told me that this was "not a choice." When I asked for clarification, she explained that she is the single mother of 5 children and can't afford more. Despite all of the resources available and the information she took, Alice went through with the abortion of her children's sibling. Please pray for Alice and especially her living children. ** One young woman, Bri, chose LIFE! The difference between Bri and many of the other women we see was a striking contrast in her openness. Bri was anxious to hear about all of the services that CareNet provides. She smiled when I told her I thought the baby was a boy and listened wide-eyed as I described the development of her son. She told me her boyfriend will support her decision to keep the baby. Bri's main concern was financial, so please pray that she avails herself of all the help there is for her. ** Summer is perfect for prayer vigils! Children welcome! We are considering extended our vigil hours to 12:00 noon, because we don't always see all of the women leave. We feel it is so important to reach these post-abortive women who so desperately need a caring face and offer of post-abortive healing when they exit the clinic. Please email or call if you can offer time at any time of the vigil, 6:30 am - 12:00 pm. Maria: [email protected] or Laura: 847-651-4877. Pray for These Abortion Employees
His Lord said unto him, 'Well done, though good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.' Matthew 25:21
This month enjoy a Reflection and Faith Challenge from "Sidewalk Advocates for Life." www.sidewalkadvocates.org Reflection: In the parable of the talents, Jesus was explaining the importance of being faithful in our service. While we may not all see the same results, we are asked to do the best we can and be faithful with what has been entrusted to us. We aren't measured by our results, but by our faithfulness in doing the best we can with what we are asked to do. This has a direct parallel to our work in this ministry: The Lord doesn't call us to go out and "save 10 babies a week." We are called to take the love of Christ to women-in-need in front of abortion facilities and offer them hope, share the Truth, and to leave the results up to God. Faith Challenge: Are we doing the best we can with what the Lord has entrusted us to do? A challenge for all of us to spend time in prayer, seeking the Lord and asking ourselves, Am I doing everything I can do, with what the Lord has entrusted me? How can I be more faithful in my service to him and what he has asked of me? Shine your light, be faithful in what you can do, and leave the results up to God. VIGIL OPPORTUNITIES FOR THIS WEEK Vigil times for the three suburban abortion mills owned and operated by abortionist Vinod Goyal (also owns one in Chicago). For more Chicago-land vigils go to: http://northwestfamiliesforlife.weebly.com/vigil-schedule.html Downers Grove (Access Health, 1700 75th St.) - Mondays, 7:00 am – 8:30 am - Thursdays and Fridays, 7:00- 8:00 am - Saturdays, 5:30 am – 11:00 am Glen Ellyn (Aanchor Medical, 186 Roosevelt Rd.) - Wednesdays, 8:00 am – 10:00 am (Contact Carol: [email protected] ) - Saturdays, 8:00 am – 10:00 am Wood Dale (Advantage Medical, 203 E. Irving Park Rd.) - Tuesdays, 6:30 am – 11:00 am NorthWest Families for Life [email protected] - Thursdays, 6:30 am – 11:00 am NorthWest Families for Life [email protected] - Saturdays 6:30 am – 11:00 am (Contact Claudia: [email protected] or Sandy:[email protected] ) News from vigils in Wood Dale: ** During the month of March, we estimate that 85 babies died inside the walls of Advantage Health Care in Wood Dale. ** ONE woman chose Life! Felix and Anna have 3 born children, but with Felix already working 7 am to 7 pm every day, they were worried about affording and being able to handle a fourth. But by the grace of God they listened to our sidewalk counselors and heard the good news that there is help available. Anna was crying as she made the decision to keep her baby. Felix then agreed. Please pray for this couple to reach out for help and feel the peace of trusting in God's will. ** One more woman chose Life on a Tuesday and we pray she stays committed to Life. She did not want to talk very much, but did say, "I didn't do anything today." We gave her information about CareNet located just down the block and pray this was another change of heart. ** Laura had an ironic encounter with a boyfriend who brought his girlfriend to kill their child. He angrily yelled at the prayer warriors, "Get a job!" We hear that one a lot and Laura loves to respond, "I already have one and my boss is a Jewish carpenter." :-) However, this time Laura asked the young man why he was so angry. He responded that he felt judged. Here is where the irony comes in; all Laura had done was offer help to this man, whereas he had judged her as a lazy person in need of work. Please pray that all will see those who pray at abortion clinics as the loving face of Jesus. ** We had a very powerful Stations of the Cross prayer service at the clinic in Wood Dale on Good Friday. Thank you to each of you who made it. Check our website for pictureswww.NorthWestFamiliesForLife.weebly.com. On the car ride home I had an interesting conversation with my children. We were discussing how many people driving by honked in support of our witness. Then my 13 year-old son mentioned that not all were happy with us and a few even yelled out the window, "Pro-choice!" Just as I was about to go into my "Blessed are you..." talk, my 8 year-old daughter piped up, "I think she yelled, 'Rejoice!'" I decided to just go with it. After all, the ability to hear joy over anger seems like a good thing to me! ** We are in need of early morning prayer support on Thursdays from 7:00 - 9:00 am. Our early morning Thursday sidewalk counselor has been alone several times lately. Please consider giving Ina the prayer support she needs. Please call if you would like to let us know you are coming and we will connect you to Ina. Laura: 847-651-4877 or [email protected]. Pray for These Abortion Employees - Nancy: Office manager and post-abortive woman - Dr. Goyal: owner and operator of Wood Dale and 3 other suburban and 1 Chicago abortion mill - *Marisela: Listed as “Medical Records,” She has been sarcastic to us in the past, often sent out to bring unsure women back in. - Eugene: Orderly/POC. We believe POC stands for “Product of Conception,” which is how abortion clinics refer to babies. This job may require him to reassemble the aborted babies’ precious bodies to make sure no parts were left inside the mother. * Starred have a copy of the Abby Johnson letter to abortion workers. You can print a copy of the letter here: www.attwn.org/wp-content/themes/attwn-child/images/attwn-onepage-lightbackground.pdf. “For he is the living God, enduring forever, whose kingdom shall not be destroyed, whose dominion shall be without end, A savior and deliverer, working signs and wonders in heaven and on earth, who saved Daniel from the lions’ power.” Daniel 6:27-28
We know in our minds that God is all-good, all-power, and all-loving... BUT sometimes we fail to recognize Him in all the little ways He shows us throughout our typical day (a smile from a stranger, a hug from a child, making the stoplight that always makes us late to work!). Sometimes, though, God's power, His signs and wonders on earth, give us a big wake-up call to remind us that His kingdom shall not be destroyed; His dominion shall be without end... and don't ever forget it! Here are some of those signs: It has been almost 2 years since Forest View abortion mill in Des Plaines closed down after 4 years of our weekly prayer vigils there. Since that time, the owner of Forest View opened a business in that location called Apollo Surgical Center. With the help of the Pro-Life Action League, we have been keeping tabs on this business to make sure they do not return to the business of killing children. Recently, a member of the Pro-Life Action League was present at an "Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board" meeting with Apollo representatives. At this meeting, Apollo reported that they have seen very few clients since its opening. You'll never guess what they said the reason was! Us! They blamed their poor business on prayer vigils that have not happened there since Apollo opened. They also said that the reason they decided NOT to commit abortions there was because of the pro-life prayer vigils. That tells me 2 things: 1. Being present and praying at locations where abortions occur has long lasting effects. The employees at Apollo can still feel the presence of God brought there through our prayer. 2. Our 4 years of faithful prayer (from 2010 - 2014) continue to prevent Apollo from performing abortions to this day. God is a savior and deliverer! Ready for another sign of our living God's dominion? Abortionist Goyal's clinic in Glen Ellyn is up for sale! Now is NOT the time to let up. We must redouble our efforts in Glen Ellyn to bring about a quick sale to a pro-life buyer and end the killing there as soon as possible. See below for vigil times. News from vigils in Wood Dale: ** During the month of January, we estimate that 80 women made a "choice" they could never un-do and had the child living inside of them killed at Advantage Health Care in Wood Dale. ** FOUR women chose Life! A mother and daughter sat in their car talking for almost 40 minutes then left at 7:25 am before the abortionist showed up. Two couples left on a Thursday. One had a rosary hanging on their rearview mirror. Finally, an Asian couple left on a Tuesday without ever going in. We pray each of these children will be born and showered with love and that their parents will be blessed with peace knowing they did the right thing. ** In the month of February, we estimate that 61 babies' beating hearts were stopped at a "Health Care" clinic in Wood Dale. ** TWO women chose Life! One looked like it might have been a grandmother bringing a granddaughter. After talking in the car, they waved to us and left before the abortionist arrived. ** During these two months, we have mourned the death of every child killed there and even named many of them. It is an honor that their biological parents denied them, so we feel honored to give them the dignity of a name. Here are a few of them: Violet, Michael, Philomena, Thomas, Augustine, Mary and Gloria. ** I was able to speak to the ex-boyfriend of one of the women who aborted her child. She is living with the ex boyfriend and their two children and became pregnant by her current boyfriend who did not even know. This is a strange example of how the breakdown of marriage is leading to abortion. Without stability, people are confused and lost. The woman's name is Kendra and her ex-boyfriend was willing to take a Project Rachel for her. Please pray for healing for all involved. ** We continue to see Illinois "Choice" Action Team members (ICAT) every Thursday morning from 7:00 - 9:00 am at Wood Dale. Ironically, they prevent the women from hearing about the choice of giving their baby life offered by the prayer warriors and sidewalk counselors. The ICATs rush to greet cars that pull in and usher women quickly into the clinic talking to them the whole way. ** For these last weeks of Lent, would you consider coming to a vigil? Even if you can only stop by for 1/2 hour before work, it would be a blessing, especially during the time the women are arriving between 6:30 am - 8:30 am. Please call if you would like to let us know you are coming and we will be sure to look for you! Laura: 847-651-4877. We could even arrange a carpool if you'd like! And join us for a special Stations of the Cross prayer service at Wood Dale on Good Friday, March 25. See details below. Pray for These Abortion Employees
"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end." (Isaiah 9:6-7)
This time of preparing to celebrate the birth of Jesus can be a time of great stress for many of us. I don't know if there is any way to avoid the stress altogether but I hope that meditating for a few minutes on the image of Jesus as "Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace" will give you a little respite. Recognize that: God is a counselor - Go to him for advice. God is mighty - There's nothing He can't do. God is your Father - He loves you personally more than you can believe. God brings peace - Just ask and allow it to sink into your soul. Wishing you a blessed Advent and Merry Christmas! Laura and Maria Happy Birthday, Jocelyn! On November 4, Elsa (a woman who chose life in Wood Dale last March) gave birth to a beautiful baby girl! Both mom and baby are doing well. We praise God for the gift of this precious life and pray that Elsa continues to trust in God raising her 4 children. News from vigils in Wood Dale: ** In November, we estimate that 66 children were killed at Advantage Health Care in Wood Dale. ** Here are the stories of some of these children. - Jacob's child lost her life because Jacob felt like he "can't be a good father." He spent a long time trying to justify her murder by explaining that he was a drug addict and has been in and out of rehab 3 times already. His girlfriend is also on drugs. When we brought up adoption, he became defensive and said he was worried about the type of people who would adopt his baby. Through it all, you could see the pain on this young man's face. Please pray for him and his girlfriend to break free from the chains of addiction and seek healing from this abortion. - Mike's son was loved up until death by his father. Mike, a mid-20's black man, tried to save his child by refusing to drive his girlfriend Liz to the clinic. When she left without him, he took a taxi to the clinic to talk her out of killing their only child. Sadly, Liz could not be convinced. - Another precious child died while her father wept for her outside in his car. This Hispanic man did not speak English but he sobbed harder than we have ever seen over the loss of his baby. We gave him material in Spanish, including Project Rachel information so he can receive healing too. ** However, there were also 5 babies' lives saved in November! - One child will be born to a couple who were helped to change their mind when they saw a picture of a baby saved at a clinic by sidewalk counselors years ago. They left smiling and, with God's help, one day their baby will be smiling back at them! - Another child's mother fought to protect her from death. A young Asian women frantically exited the clinic alone but was soon followed by an Illinois "Choice" Escort (These escorts stand in the clinic parking lot on Thursdays to usher women into the clinic and talk to them the whole time to drown out our pleas to help). The young woman dashed away to the sidewalk where one of our counselors joined her to give her information about the truth about abortion and the life-affirming alternatives. The girl continued to walk around the block with the escort and counselor following. She did not want to talk to either escort or counselor but finally decided to take off running away from the clinic. She did not return! We pray she stayed strong in her determination to keep her child safe. - THREE children were saved on the Saturday of the huge snowstorm. Yes, there were faithful prayer warriors out their sacrificing the warmth of their homes to stand in the gap between life and death for these babies. And God blessed their faithfulness with 3 women who chose life. It's amazing how obedience to God, especially in difficult times, reaps great rewards! ** Another blessing happened this month when an employee told us she was quitting. Turn-over is huge at the clinic in Wood Dale. Many of the employees we see these days were not here in September and many of those seen in September are gone (We pray to better jobs!). ** For the last few weeks, every Tuesday an ultrasound technician comes to Wood Dale for about an hour and then leaves. She stopped to talk to us. Her name is Rachel and she is against abortion. However, she fails to see that by performing ultrasounds on women before their abortion, she is an accomplice to the murder of that child. Please pray for her to leave this clinic, but also pray that while she is in the clinic God may use her to show women and the employees the humanity of each unborn child. ** Is God calling you to stand in prayer at a clinic to witness to the humanity of these children? No sidewalk counseling experience needed. All you need to do is show up and pray any Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday from 7:00 am - 11:00 am and let God do the rest. Call or email us for more info: Laura 847-651-4877 or Maria [email protected] Pray for These Abortion Employees
"If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen." (1 Peter 4:11)
We have much to praise God for every day, but today we praise Him even more as we celebrate the 552 babies saved worldwide during the 40 Days for Life campaign that concluded last Sunday and thepermanent closure of the notorious late-term abortion mill, Albany Medical Surgical, as of October 17. Ann and Joe Scheidler of the Pro-Life Action League had been praying and sidewalk counseling there for over 25 years with so many faithful pro-life friends. They served God with the strength, that only He could provide, to share in His victory. You can see Ann and Joe talking about this here: Albany closing You can also read an article here listing the events leading up to the closing, including their license having been revoked in March while they continued to operate. God hears and answers prayer! So be encouraged to serve God, trusting that He will provide you with the strength to do all He has planned for you. "To Him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen!" News from vigils in Wood Dale: ** In October, we estimate that 74 innocent lives were taken at their own mothers' request at Advantage Health Care in Wood Dale. ** There are more reasons for praise as we witnessed 3 saves during October! - Two sisters came to the clinic. Maria told us that her sister was considering abortion because she is 37 with 4 children and considers herself too old to have a baby. Maria was pleased to take all of the information we provided to her sister and they left without having an abortion! - A couple sat in the car in the abortion mill parking lot for a half an hour. During that time, the man appeared to be arguing with the woman. Also during that time, faithful prayer warriors stood in view praying and holding signs offering life-saving help. The couple left and did not return! - Another couple made a choice for Life as a prayer warrior kneeled in prayer in view of their car while the woman cried inside. The man in the car finally told the prayer warriors that "she changed her mind" when she saw them praying for her. ** Other women and men made a tragic choice for their growing children. - Brenda came with her sister, Nancy, from Wisconsin. Brenda told us that Nancy has one child and doesn't want another. She hadn't told her husband that she is pregnant. Brenda said that she, personally, was against the abortion and took all of the information we offered. We can only pray that this family will find Jesus' healing power. - Jerry is a 20 year-old Catholic man who was brought with his 19 year-old girlfriend to the clinic by his sister. Jerry cried as he told us that he wanted the baby but he said, "It's her body." When confronted by the fetal model of the baby's body, he could only shrug helplessly. ** We met a lovely woman, Maricella, from San Diego who was in town with her husband on business. She had no idea this was an abortion clinic. She found Advantage in the yellow pages in her hotel room and came for a pregnancy test hoping she would be pregnant with their 4th child. The employees at Advantage said they could not help her. She came out confused and talked with us. We explained that the only business they want is killing children. She asked us to pray that her family will indeed welcome a 4th child soon! ** The weather has been beautiful. Perfect for outdoor prayer! We are especially in need of prayer warriors on Tuesdays at 9:00 am and Thursdays at 7:00 am. No sidewalk counseling experience needed. All you need to do is stand in prayer and let God do the rest. Call or email us for more info: Laura 847-651-4877 or Maria [email protected] Pray for These Abortion Employees - Nancy: Office manager and post-abortive woman - Dr. Goyal: owner and operator of Wood Dale and 3 other suburban and 1 Chicago abortion mill - Sampath: Anesthesiologist, very friendly to us, always waves back and smiles - *Marisela: Listed as “Medical Records,” She has been sarcastic to us in the past, often sent out to bring unsure women back in. - Eugene: Orderly/POC. We believe POC stands for “Product of Conception,” which is how abortion clinics refer to babies. This job may require him to reassemble the aborted babies’ precious bodies to make sure no parts were left inside the mother. - Marcelino and Omar: We no longer see these 2 drivers of the "Medical Waste" truck that comes to the clinic every Tuesday morning. We pray that they refused to be part of the killing anymore! Unfortunately, there is now a new driver who will not speak to us. * Starred have a copy of the Abby Johnson letter to clinic workers. You can print a copy of it here: www.attwn.org/wp-content/themes/attwn-child/images/attwn-onepage-lightbackground.pdf. "But someone may well say, 'You have faith and I have works; show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works.' ... faith without works is useless." (James 2:18-20)
Many churches designate October as "Respect Life Month." Many of us feel that Respect Life Month should be every month! However, designating this month as a special time for reflection and prayer provides a new opportunity to engage others who may BE pro-life but have never actively DONE pro-life. Yes, Pro-life is not just something you are, but something you do. Just as faith without works is useless, so are pro-life beliefs without any action. We know many of you already DO so much for the cause, so maybe this month make it your goal to encourage just one person you know who is pro-life to get out there and DO something pro-life. To help you, we're putting the upcoming events at the top of this update. Find one event below and invite a friend to join you. Maybe Life Chain this Sunday (NWFL is co-sponsoring the one in Arlington Heights). Maybe the Planned Parenthood protest in Aurora on Saturday, Oct. 10. Maybe sign up for an hour of vigil at a 40 Days for Life site. Maybe the brand new event "Diaper Drive for CareNet" that NorthWest Families for Life is organizing for the first time outside the Wood Dale abortion facility the week of Oct. 13 during all vigil hours as a sign to the community that we are there to help women. See all the details for these events and more below, grab a friend, and show your faith by your works! In September, we estimate that 66 women left Advantage Health Care in Wood Dale forever changed and without the precious gift of Life that they came in with. ** One couple, Zach and Alicia, in their 20's came to abort their second child. They have a 6 month old daughter and Alicia's doctor told her it was "too soon" to have another child. We assured him that nothing could be farther from the truth. Some of our prayer warriors spoke up about their own close-in-age siblings and what a special bond it is. Although Zach took information about a pro-life doctor and other brochures inside to Alicia, he was unable to protect his child from death. ** A woman brought her daughter for an abortion excusing the killing of her own grandchild by telling us that her daughter has cancer. Recent studies have shown that chemotherapy is safe for unborn children after the 3rd month of pregnancy and possibly even earlier (Pregnancy and Chemotherapy). Sadly, this mother would do nothing to save her grandchild from death or her daughter from the harm of abortion. ** One woman courageously chose LIFE on a Saturday! She is in her 20's and as she drove away, her friend called out smiling, "She's keeping her baby! It's due in April." Pray for a healthy pregnancy and delivery for this young woman. ** Another young woman, 19 years old, was unable to find the courage to resist the "easy solution" of abortion. I met Diana on a Tuesday as she was leaving the clinic after her abortion. She was very sad, and I gave her a Project Rachel brochure with my cell number on it as I always do for those who will accept. No one had ever contacted me... until Diana. I've come to know her over the last few weeks and discovered, as we suspected, that there is no "choice" inside an abortion clinic. Diana tried to leave twice before the abortion and an employee told her that everything would be fine and to just go through with it. My heart breaks for Diana's pain and regret. Yet, through the grace of God, Diana is repentantly seeking forgiveness from God and hopes to one day become a nurse to help people. Please keep Diana in your prayers as she has a long road ahead of her spiritually and emotionally. She has named her baby Leah. Please mourn for this lost child. ** As God would have it, I received another text from a post-abortive woman the very next week. Katherine is not sure how she feels about the abortion yet, but is grateful that there is a program like Project Rachel willing to help. (www.hopeafterabortion.org) Please pray for her enlightenment, repentance, and forgiveness. ** A Hispanic couple was leaving after receiving the RU486 abortion pill. Laura was able to stop them at the exit and they listened intently as she told them that they can reverse the abortion by contacting www.abortionpillreversal.com. Please pray for this couple and spread the word so others may be spared the pain of abortion. ** On a Thursday there was a strange situation when a woman named Melaydes came out of Wood Dale. She told Laura that she had been referred to Advantage by Van Matre Hospital in Rockford. They told her that she had an ectopic pregnancy and needed blood tests. Very confusing. There would be no reason for a hospital to send a woman over an hour to a Wood Dale abortion clinic for blood tests. Yet, Melaydes was clearly telling the truth as she was extremely upset by the loss of her child to an ectopic pregnancy and considers herself pro-life. Melaydes is from Columbia and perhaps that is why the Rockford hospital seems to be taking advantage of her. Is an employee at Van Matre getting kick-backs from Dr. Goyal? When Laura called the hospital, it turned out to be a rehabilitation hospital. Could this be a case of someone seeing this woman under false pretenses, possibly Medicaid scam? Who knows? If you have any information about Van Matre Hospital, please let us know. Laura gave Melaydes a wealth of information about support for her and pro-life help available in Rockford. ** With the kids back at school, there's no time like fall to come out in prayer. We are especially in need of prayer warriors on Tuesdays at 9:00 am and Thursdays at 7:00 am. No sidewalk counseling experience needed. All you need to do is stand in prayer and let God do the rest. Call or email us for more info: Laura 847-651-4877 or Maria [email protected] Pray for These Abortion Employees - Nancy: Office manager and post-abortive woman - Dr. Goyal: owner and operator of Wood Dale and 3 other suburban and 1 Chicago abortion mill - Sampath: Anesthesiologist, very friendly to us, always waves back and smiles - *Marisela: Listed as “Medical Records,” She has been sarcastic to us in the past, often sent out to bring unsure women back in. - Eugene: Orderly/POC. We believe POC stands for “Product of Conception,” which is how abortion clinics refer to babies. This job may require him to reassemble the aborted babies’ precious bodies to make sure no parts were left inside the mother. - Marcelino and Omar: We no longer see these 2 drivers of the "Medical Waste" truck that comes to the clinic every Tuesday morning. We pray that they refused to be part of the killing anymore! Unfortunately, there is now a new driver who will not speak to us. * Starred have a copy of the Abby Johnson letter to clinic workers. You can print a copy of it here: www.attwn.org/wp-content/themes/attwn-child/images/attwn-onepage-lightbackground.pdf. “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)
Sometimes people ask us if we really think we are accomplishing anything by standing vigil at abortion mills. In fact, I even used to wonder at times, “Will it really matter if I show up or not?” Maybe you’ve questioned, “Why can’t I just pray from home? God can hear me no matter where I pray.” Yes, of course, He can, but the women entering an abortion mill CANNOT. When you stand in peaceful prayer in community with others, you can bring the inner peace that prayer brings to you, to those who see you. When you bear witness at an abortion mill, you let the light of God’s love shine through you. You are the “sign from God” that some women seeking an abortion say they prayed for before going to the clinic. Yet, prayer vigils are not only powerful for the women entering a mill, but also for those of us who stand in prayer. It is so heartening to hear the honks and waves of encouragement from passers-by. And when you see the real women and real men in crisis, you become more convicted, more determined, and more energized for LIFE. You see the humanity of the individuals for whom you are praying. You gain strength from knowing that you made a difference by submitting yourself to God’s will - even if the only obvious difference happens inside yourself! Jericho March Joy! We certainly let our light shine at the Jericho March in Wood Dale on Sunday, Aug. 23. Thank you to all of you who made it out to pray for the end of the child-killing in Wood Dale. There were over 125 people there! A big thank you to Fathers O'Reilly, Cavallari, and Slawek and Pastor John Kirkwood. See photos here: www.northwestfamiliesforlife.weebly.com “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16) Sometimes people ask us if we really think we are accomplishing anything by standing vigil at abortion mills. In fact, I even used to wonder at times, “Will it really matter if I show up or not?” Maybe you’ve questioned, “Why can’t I just pray from home? God can hear me no matter where I pray.” Yes, of course, He can, but the women entering an abortion mill CANNOT. When you stand in peaceful prayer in community with others, you can bring the inner peace that prayer brings to you, to those who see you. When you bear witness at an abortion mill, you let the light of God’s love shine through you. You are the “sign from God” that some women seeking an abortion say they prayed for before going to the clinic. Yet, prayer vigils are not only powerful for the women entering a mill, but also for those of us who stand in prayer. It is so heartening to hear the honks and waves of encouragement from passers-by. And when you see the real women and real men in crisis, you become more convicted, more determined, and more energized for LIFE. You see the humanity of the individuals for whom you are praying. You gain strength from knowing that you made a difference by submitting yourself to God’s will - even if the only obvious difference happens inside yourself! Jericho March Joy! We certainly let our light shine at the Jericho March in Wood Dale on Sunday, Aug. 23. Thank you to all of you who made it out to pray for the end of the child-killing in Wood Dale. There were over 125 people there! A big thank you to Fathers O'Reilly, Cavallari, and Slawek and Pastor John Kirkwood. See photos here: www.northwestfamiliesforlife.weebly.com VIGIL OPPORTUNITIES FOR THIS WEEK Vigil times for the three suburban abortion mills owned and operated by abortionist Vinod Goyal (also owns one in Chicago). For more Chicago-land vigils go to: http://northwestfamiliesforlife.weebly.com/vigil-schedule.html Downers Grove (Access Health, 1700 75th St.) - Mondays, 7:00 am – 8:30 am - Thursdays and Fridays, 7:00- 8:00 am - Saturdays, 5:30 am – 11:00 am Glen Ellyn (Aanchor Medical, 186 Roosevelt Rd.) - Wednesdays, 8:00 am – 10:00 am (Contact Carol: [email protected] ) - Saturdays, 8:00 am – 10:00 am Wood Dale (Advantage Medical, 203 E. Irving Park Rd.) - Tuesdays, 6:30 am – 11:00 am NorthWest Families for Life [email protected] - Thursdays, 6:30 am – 11:00 am NorthWest Families for Life [email protected] - Saturdays 6:30 am – 11:00 am (Contact Claudia: [email protected] or Sandy: [email protected] ) News from vigils in Wood Dale: ** In August, we estimate that 63 babies' lives were ended at Advantage Health Care in Wood Dale. ** Jaimie and Diana came to abort their third child. Jaimie stopped to talk to me after he dropped off Diana. He explained that he had just been convicted of a crime and would be going to jail soon and didn't want his child to "grow up fatherless." I tried to explain that he will always be this child's father, but he is taking away the child's opportunity to grow up at all. He also excused it by saying that he doesn't want his wife to struggle with more kids. I told him about all the free help available and that this will only increase her struggles. Nothing I said could turn Jaimie away from this desperate act. He did, however, accept a Project Rachel brochure for Diana and rosaries for each of them. ** A 20 year-old couple killed their first child. They seemed to be very unaware of what they were doing, but the young man was very polite to me. As they left, I handed them a Project Rachel and a rosary. The young man then gestured to his girlfriend who started digging in her purse to present me with a crystal. I thanked them but did not keep the crystal. The young man had also been wearing one around his neck. These are objects of the occult and should be avoided. To read more: www.bibleinfo.com/en/questions/what-does-bible-say-about-crystals ** Carlos described his wife Desiree as "heartbroken" over the death of their third child at the hands of an abortionist. He told me that they have two daughters and wanted this third baby; however, the doctor told Desiree that this pregnancy would kill her. He did not give more details. We did inform him of the ob/gyn practice of Dr. Robert Lawler who would care for both Desiree and their child. www.downersgroveob.com. Carlos took a Project Rachel but would not try to save his child. ** These are only a few of those who came for abortions. Many won't talk to us and just drive by or wave us off saying they're "good" or a few even yell. Many arrive appearing very sure of themselves but leave in tears. It's very difficult to watch, but we know that we must be there as the face of God and let them know that God still loves them. ** We believe there was 1 save on a Thursday when 2 women left before the doctor arrived. We pray that God will lead them to the support they need. ** We were encouraged last month by many folks who were just driving by but stopped to encourage and pray with us. Emilie and Brandon stopped by with their one-year-old son and 18 weeks-in-the-womb 2nd baby! Levi and Andy thanked us for being there and prayed with us and for us. Herb encouraged us by telling the story of his grandson's adoption. Kayla came by to see what we were doing and left armed with information to take with her to college. God is so good to send these people as signs to encourage us in our ministry! ** With the kids back at school, there's no time like fall to come out in prayer. We are especially in need of prayer warriors on Tuesdays 9:00 am and Thursdays 7:00 am. No sidewalk counseling experience needed. All you need to do is let your light shine by standing in prayer! Call or email us for more info: Laura 847-651-4877 or Maria [email protected] |
Our vigil update writer:
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