Strength in numbers

Several weeks ago, I joined with dozens of pro-life Catholics for a procession after a Mass to Planned Parenthood in Manhattan, where they prayed the Rosary for at least an hour. When we arrived, we stood in a long line directly across the street from the abortuary. Two escorts (fondly referred to as "deathscorts" by prolifers) stood in front of PP, waiting to escort customers inside or open the door for them. Deathscorts are commonly volunteers from the hardcore pro-choice community, and some are paid full-time.

At first, one of the deathscorts pointed and counted with her fingers how many of us there were- I think around 40- and acted sarcastically impressed with our numbers. Although she wore a confident smug look on her face, I couldn't help but think how uncomfortable she must be inside. Two versus forty! They were quite outnumbered.

Later on, another worker began to take pictures of us, and then video, with her camera. This is a very common intimidation tactic used by clinic workers and pro-choice protesters all over the country. At this point I had to contain my laughter because some of the pro-lifers were also taking a bunch of pictures and videos of our group! None of use minded the cameras, so the deathscort's attempt to bug us was futile.

Seeing the deathscorts so outnumbered reminded me just how pathetic they are. They are probably seeking justification for past choices by doing this job, but all that abortion can offer is more death, lies, and misery. They are proud of what they do, but I just felt extremely sorry for them.

strength in numbers.

Beyond the fact that the deathscorts had to listen to repetitive prayers for an hour, I think something else must have bothered them: our numbers. They were outnumbered twenty to one. It's practically part of their job description to act intimidating, but in this situation it was useless. Surely they must have been just a little scared, deep down inside; If I was in their shoes, I would have been terrified! And as for me, I have never felt more confident in front of an abortion clinic than when I was part of a wall of people praying.

The phrase "strength in numbers" is SO true. With numbers, especially outside of abortion clinics, we are safer, more powerful, more confident, and ultimately we can have more of an impact. The area surrounding an abortion clinic is a spiritual battleground. God's army is always bigger than the Devil's- may our numbers reflect that!