The vigil, from February 14 until March 25, will take part on the public right-of-way outside BPAS, Bowthorpe Road, Turnstone Court Norwich from 8:30am-4:30pm every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday during Lent.
Fr Henry Whisenant, from St John's Cathedral, said:"It is not designed as a protest, it is a prayer vigil and witness. We will warmly welcome anyone who would like to join us. It coincides with the 40 days of Lent, whichare significant in the Christian tradition as a timefor prayer to God in an especial way.
"Thisvigil has been given Bishop Alan Hopes’ blessing and support, and he joined us on the afternoon of the first day.
“In fact 40 Days for Lifeis aninternational initiative, which essentiallycalls on Christians of good will to come together to pray peacefullyand to be a presence that shows our love for life.It’s a way toinvite people to reflect seriouslyon whetherabortion is really everin the best interests of individuals, families or society.We also hope that our witness reaches out tothose womenwho are coming to use the clinic and who may feel constrained to make this decision, to show them that we arethere for them, and that there is another way.”
Norwich vigil supporter, Katy, said; “It is an unfortunate reality that many women who opt for abortion feel like they have no other choice but termination. There are many organisations out there which seek to help women in crisis pregnancies, for example offering temporary accommodation, to prams, to professional counselling and so on. The 40-day vigil endeavours to provide information on the alternatives at that last crucial moment when it all becomes reality before they enter the clinic, whilst also observing silent prayer and witness.
"By holding this campaign, we aim to help promote a culture of life and ultimately make it known to the women in our community, that their babies and themselves deserve better than abortion.”
You can find out more at 40daysforlife.com/norwich or email: 40norwich@gmail.com
Pictured above Fr Henry Whisenant and other supporters at the 40 Days for Life vigil outside the BPAS Abortion Clinic in Norwich.