More than 40 people gathered to pray the rosary with Bishop Barry C. Knestout in front of a Richmond Planned Parenthood clinic, Tuesday, Oct. 23. The vigil was part of 40 Days for Life, a national effort in which participants pray for an end to abortion. According to organizers, this was the first time a bishop of the Diocese of Richmond had joined the group in prayer.

Calling abortion a “scourge” on America, Bishop Knestout encouraged the group to continue praying for an end to abortion and to promote the sanctity of life in how they live their daily lives. He thanked them for the commitment they have made on behalf of the unborn.

There are six 40 Days for Life campaigns in the Diocese of Richmond at this time. In addition to Richmond, campaigns are being held in Charlottesville, Roanoke, Virginia Beach, Newport News and Bristol.

Since 40 Days for Life’s inception in 2007, Richmond has been part of every campaign. Two are done each year; the spring campaign is held at the abortion facility at Grove and the Boulevard and the fall campaign at Planned Parenthood on Hamilton.