Schenectady's 40 Days for Life campaign got off to an encouraging start as the local team launched its ninth vigil.

The local Catholic bishop led prayer at the campaign's kickoff event, which was covered by reporters from the Albany Times-Union.



"Primarily, we're here to pray for and support those faced with a wrenching decision," Bishop Edward Scharfenberger told the newspaper. "So many times, people face this decision alone."

"We're here to bring truth and hope for women and men who visit Planned Parenthood," said Viviane, the local leader. The newspaper said she called the 40 Days for Life the "last defense" to try and direct women to nearby crisis pregnancy centers and helplines before go to Planned Parenthood for an abortion. "They have another choice, and the choice is life," she said.


David Brandao, COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

With 40 Days for Life, David wears many hats. Prior to joining the 40 Days for Life team, he was an award-winning radio and TV journalist. He has also served as a board member for a pregnancy help center and as publications director for a major national pro-life organization.