Ruth in Halifax, Nova Scotia acknowledges her city is a tough place to be pro-life...

...but the 22-year-old campaign leader is quick to point out that standing up for her Christian faith in Halifax isn't as difficult as it was where she grew up: Saudi Arabia.

"It was in this country that I became a Christian, even knowing the potential cost. I attended underground churches with my parents until even those individuals left, and it was just us."

After living in a country where Christians can be killed, insults and middle fingers are not going to keep Ruth from praying publicly for an end to abortion.

"When I face opposition or people tell me I'll be persecuted, I just think, 'What are they going to do? Kill me?'"

"Many people in Canada do not have the experiences that I do with persecution," Ruth said. "Here there is a fear of being ostracised, but little understanding of the accompanying joys. There is great fear and timidity."

Still, her outreach is working. More than 50 people attended her kickoff event last week.

“We must let our love be greater than our fear," she exhorted her volunteers. "Because whatever they can do to us on the street, far worse is being done to the women inside the clinic.

Grand Rapids, Michigan

Abortion supporters attempted to disrupt the Grand Rapids vigil by dancing obnoxiously in front of campaign participants.

The pro-lifers kept their cool, maintaining their peaceful, prayerful approach to ending abortion where they live.

'This photo is a poignant reminder of our mission to pray, despite all happening around us, for an end to abortion in our city," said Laura, the Grand Rapids leader.

Modesto, California

Community outreach is a key component of any strong 40 Days for Life campaign. Karen in Modesto reported great success engaging students at a local Catholic High School volunteer fair.

"We had HOARDS of kids coming, getting info and the permission slip," she said, adding that her team gave away a bunch of wristbands and candy.

Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.

— Psalm 82:4

Father, may you empower the hundreds today who are serving in our pregnancy help centers. Grant those answering calls, providing ultrasound and following up with a bold spirit of truth, love and perseverance.

See today's full devotional

For life,

Shawn Carney
President/CEO, 40 Days for Life

Steven Karlen, Campaign Director

Prior to joining the headquarters team, Steve directed several highly-successful 40 Days for Life campaigns in his hometown of Madison, Wisconsin. As campaign director, Steve helps local 40 Days for Life leaders build and improve life-saving efforts in their communities.