While at the vigil site, remember to maintain a peaceful, prayerful presence at all times. Greet your fellow prayer volunteers, but try to avoid holding lengthy conversatoins that may distract you ... and others ... from prayer during your commited time slot.
SIGNAGE
For those participating in the 40 Days for Life campaign, the use of graphic signs of aborted babies is prohibited.
Signs are certainly not a requiremenet at the vigil site, and, in fact, when there is a large group praying we should limit the amount of signs so that we don't look like a protest, picket, or demonstration.
When we do use signs, we need to be aware of the message being conveyed. Is it a loving, compassionate message? Or is it judgemental or condeming? What kind of message do you think will turn the heart of a scared young woman looking for help?
Examples of "mildly worded signs" include, but are not limited to the following:
"Pray to End Abortion"
"We can HELP"
"Motherhood begins at Concepton"
"Need Help; Call 1-800-395-4357" (Option Line)
Examples of "inappropriately worded signs" at the vigil site:
"Face it, Abortion Kills"
While this is obviously true ... and this sign may be effective in educating the public passing by the site or during a Life Chain activity -- this message is not likely to soften a mother's heart as she is entering the facility.
"Defund Planned Parenthood"
Again, although this sign is effective in other settings, is it really going to change a mother's heart as she is entering the facility for services?
SIGNAGE
For those participating in the 40 Days for Life campaign, the use of graphic signs of aborted babies is prohibited.
Signs are certainly not a requiremenet at the vigil site, and, in fact, when there is a large group praying we should limit the amount of signs so that we don't look like a protest, picket, or demonstration.
When we do use signs, we need to be aware of the message being conveyed. Is it a loving, compassionate message? Or is it judgemental or condeming? What kind of message do you think will turn the heart of a scared young woman looking for help?
Examples of "mildly worded signs" include, but are not limited to the following:
"Pray to End Abortion"
"We can HELP"
"Motherhood begins at Concepton"
"Need Help; Call 1-800-395-4357" (Option Line)
Examples of "inappropriately worded signs" at the vigil site:
"Face it, Abortion Kills"
While this is obviously true ... and this sign may be effective in educating the public passing by the site or during a Life Chain activity -- this message is not likely to soften a mother's heart as she is entering the facility.
"Defund Planned Parenthood"
Again, although this sign is effective in other settings, is it really going to change a mother's heart as she is entering the facility for services?