Group Demonstrating against Abortion in Wausau through Lent

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Updated: 10:43 PM Feb 25, 2009 Group Demonstrating against Abortion in Wausau through Lent The group 40-Days for Life is using Lent to hold a prayer vigil in an attempt to raise awareness about abortion. Posted: 5:36 PM Feb 25, 2009 Reporter: WSAW Staff Email Address: news@wsaw.com

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The group 40-Days for Life is using Lent to hold a prayer vigil in an attempt to raise awareness about abortion.

Vigils like one at Family Planning Health Services in Wausau are being held in 130 communities across the nation.

A member of 40-Days for Life says they are holding the vigil to bring awareness and respect for the value of life.

But Lon Newman, the executive director of FPHS, feels contraception is not the same as abortion – a service FPHS does not offer. Not only that, but Newman is worried a large group outside FPHS will cause traffic and safety concerns.

"With a larger group with signs and things, there tends to be a traffic issue off of Norton going onto the one way, especially the time school closes,” Newman said.

But group members insist they won’t be causing any problems or harassing any of FPHS’s clients.

"We're just sitting here praying peacefully for 40 days,” Terri Whitaker said. “Were not demonstrating, we're praying.”

40-Days for life fears if certain bills are put into law it will be easier for women to obtain abortions.

The group’s vigils will move to the Marathon County Courthouse on weekends since they feel abortion is largely a legislative issue.

Latest Comments

Posted by: Nancy Location: Schofield on Mar 25, 2009 at 09:32 PM

I can't understand why Mr. Newman feels there is a traffic hazard for cars turning onto 3RD ave. from Norton St. It is a left turn into a left lane of a one-way street. Even a huge crowd would not cause any problem since the "prayer warriors" are also on the drivers left. The REAL dangers lie inside the building not on the street.

Posted by: Helen Location: Harper Woods, Mi on Mar 11, 2009 at 01:49 PM

Thank you and never give up. In God we trust.

Posted by: Kate Location: Madison ME on Mar 3, 2009 at 09:39 AM

Thanks for participating in 40 days for Life. I don't understand where the large crowds are that would endanger traffic, I only see one person. Prayer is powerful so keep up the great work!

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