The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote greeted participants in attendance at the vigil Mass held on September 21st with these words, “I thank you for joining us in this opening mass as we begin our 15th year of participation in the prayerful 40 Days For Life campaign in the Diocese of Norwich. We gather together this evening to pray for the end of the taking of innocent human lives here in our very own community. Tomorrow our prayerful outdoor presence begins, showing our compassion towards those who may find themselves in stressful circumstances, and with the help of God's grace, hopefully, mothers may turn their hearts into making life affirming decisions.”

Guest homilist Father Michael Bovino reminded all in attendance, as well as those watching the livestream, about the spiritual weapons that the Lord has provided us. 

“Now I suspect that none of you here tonight need to be reminded that we need to fight for the protection of human life. Many of you are and wish to be devoted servants to the Gospel of Life.” He noted that we are, “living in a time and place where the Gospel seems to be opposed more and more each day, where the Christian way of life is attacked and persecuted. I think perhaps the Lord is reminding us all once again to take up the spiritual weapons that he has given to us.”

Whether it be in your home, in your local church, or as a visible witness on the sidewalk in front of Planned Parenthood, we pray that you can find it in your heart to participate in the 40 Days for Life campaign with prayer and fasting to put an end to abortion.

Visit NorwichDiocese.org/40daysforlife to sign up for one hour of prayer at Planned Parenthood and to view the entire vigil Mass, including the homily.