40 Days For Life: DAY 16: Pro-abortion protesters become friends

You'd never know Oregon is one of America's most abortion-friendly places visiting any of the state's three 40 Days for Life vigils. 40 Days for Life Director of Medical Affairs & Education Dr. Haywood Robinson saw the fortitude of pro-life Oregonians firsthand on a recent trip to the Beaver State. A large pro-life crowd gathered in the rain to hear him speak at the Portland vigil. A group of protesters came to oppose Haywood and the Portland vigil participants...but after hearing his testimony as a former abortion provider, the protesters left with a new perspective.

"Dr. Robinson gave a great speech," said Therese, the Portland campaign leader. "Then, he went across the street and spoke with some protesters. By the end of it, they shook his hand, thanked him, and said they were so glad to meet him! It was awesome and beautiful." Haywood commented of his conversation with the demonstrators: "I think it really changed their hearts." The good news from Portland continued as vigil participants shared news of a saved baby the day before Haywood's visit! "Her due date should be the first week in November," Therese said. "Just in time for THANKSGIVING!"

Salem, Oregon From Portland, Haywood headed south for Salem, where hundreds of 40 Days for Life participants gathered to hear him speak. "It was the largest vigil site event I've been a part of," Haywood said. "I wish I had taken some panoramic photos so that I could have fit the whole group into one shot!" Bob, the Salem leader, said the rally was awesome. "We were blown away...God answered our prayers in a big way!"

Eugene, Oregon About 50 pro-lifers--many of them young people--gathered to see Haywood in Eugene. "Dr. Robinson spoke from his heart about his medical school years, his conversion, and his hope that Roe v. Wade will be overturned," said Eileen, the campaign leader. "His story touched us all."

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. —Matthew 11:28 Father, hear our prayer! Snatch desperate mothers from the fire. Bring them out of our abortion businesses and into our pregnancy help centers. Deliver them from evil. Use us to help them choose life and see your hand of provision. See today's full devotional

For life,

Shawn Carney President/CEO, 40 Days for Life

40 Days for Life 4112 E 29th St. Bryan, Texas 77802 United States (888) LIFE-316