Saturday, March 29, 2014

Devin Oliver is Big Brother to a Very Special Little Sister! Please check out this video!

Devin Oliver does have a very special little sister, but Mia also has a very special big brother. He really treats her like a queen. So many brothers and sisters will never know their special sibling who had down syndrome or other disabilities, because they are being aborted in high numbers. We are the ones who lose by not knowing people that were suppose to be part of our families and part of our communities.

http://www.cbssports.com/video/player/collegebasketball/210700867648/0/a-special-bond-between-daytons-devin-oliver-and-his-younger-sister

Thursday, March 27, 2014

2014-03-28 Updated List of Upcoming Pro-Life Events and News for Washtenaw County and beyond…

Partial list as of March 28th, 2014 Compiled by Sandie Weathers

40 Days For Life News:
253 communities across North America and around the world began 40 Days For Life 2014 Spring Campaigns on Ash Wednesday, March 5th and will conclude on Palm Sunday, April 13th. 40 Days for Life (40 DFL) is a focused pro-life campaign with a vision to access God’s power through prayer, fasting, and peaceful vigil to end abortion. International website: http://www.40daysforlife.com/

Ann Arbor: We are again holding a prayer vigil at the Ann Arbor Planned Parenthood Facility, 3100 Professional Drive. To sign up for an hour of prayer at Planned Parenthood, please go to: http://40daysforlife.com/annarbor.html.   For add’l info contact Campaign Director, Kate Astrakhan at kateastrakhan@gmail.com or 734-249-4944. LIKE us on FB:  www.facebook.com/40daysforlifeannarbor 
   
Ann Arbor: Please join us, Saturday, March 29th at 11:30 am at Planned Parenthood, 3100 Professional Drive, Ann Arbor for Byzantine Catholic Pro-Life Activism--Akathist Hymn to the Mother of GodFor centuries, Eastern Christians, both Orthodox and Eastern Catholic, have prayed the Akathist Hymn to ask the intercession and protection of the Mother of God. Therefore, it is the perfect prayer to use for the purpose of asking for the Blessed Virgin's assistance in defeating the culture of death. FB Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1409424212653395/?notif_t=plan_user_invited.

Ann Arbor: Visit by Steve Karlen from National 40 Days for Life team on Wednesday, April 2nd at 9:00 AM - Steve will be visiting all of the Michigan 40 DFL sites in a whirlwind tour of our state.  Steve was instrumental in having abortions stopped at a Wisconsin hospital and is now on the National 40 DFL team. Come and hear Steve’s inspiring stories.

Southfield: The Spring/Lent 2014 40 Days for Life campaign at Womancare of Southfield, starts March 5 (Ash Wednesday) and ends at 4 p.m. on April 13 (Palm Sunday).  We are emphasizing the Fasting aspects along with the Prayer at the vigil site (and elsewhere).

Our Lady of Czestochowa - the Black Madonna, coming to Michigan locations:
 -March 28 – Our Lady of Czestochowa Church in Sterling Heights, MI
-March 29-30 – St. Isidore’s Church in Grand Rapids, MI
-March 31 – St. Mary’s Cathedral in Lansing, MI
The Black Madonna has been traveling the world since 2012 defending LIFE and for the pro-life movement. More details will be coming! Learn more at the Ocean To Ocean Campaign In Defense of Life at http://www.hli.org/hli_campaigns/ocean-ocean-pilgrimage/

The 40 Film is showing on Saturday, March 29, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. and on Sunday, March 30th at 4:00 pm at Madonna University’s Franciscan Center (Room S100) at 36600 Schoolcraft Road, Livonia, MI 48150. This documentary investigates the effects of abortion over the last 40 years. Open to all students, faculty and community members, with babysitting for families with children available. Watch trailer at: www.the40film.com. Dr. Monica Miller, Director of Citizens for a Pro-life Society, Madonna University professor and author of Abandoned: The Untold Story of the Abortion Wars will be present at both screenings. Admission is a free will donation. Buy tickets here: http://40-film-screening-madonna.eventbrite.com/. For info contact: Marisa Rosenbaum at respect.life@my.madonna.edu or 248-825-7395.

Pregnancy Helpline Annual Celebration of Life will take place April 3, at 6:30PM. Nationally renowned speaker and former abortionist Dr. Levatino and his wife Ceil will keynote the annual Pregnancy Helpline Celebration of Life fund and awareness raising celebration. The event will also feature our famous Appetizer & Dessert Buffet, Baskets for Life Challenge, Silent Auction, a client testimony, great music, and more! Where:  The Brighton Church of the Nazarene - 7669 Brighton Rd, Brighton. Cost:  $20 each - groups of 10 or more $18 each. Pastors and a guest Free!

RLM Annual High School Oratory Contest, sponsored by Washtenaw & Western Wayne County RTL, will take place on Saturday, April 5th at Domino's Farms, EBA Cafe (lobby H, lower level). Obtain application, promotional flyer, rules & regulations go to: http://www.rtl.org/faith_school/oratory/oratorycontest.html. Or contact Karen Walacavage at (734)930-7474 or email:kwalacavage@rtl.org.

On Thursday, April 10th, the Knights of Columbus Michigan State Council will be hosting the 36th Annual Respect Life Dinner to benefit the Right to Life of Michigan Educational Fund. This year our special guest speaker is Chris Godfrey, Life Athletes Founder and President.  The Burton Manor in Livonia is located at 27777 Schoolcraft 48150. Social hour begins at 6:00 pm, dinner at 7:00 pm. Register on line at http://rtl.org/events/kofc/respectlife.html. For more details contact www.rtl.org or respectlife@rtl.org or (248) 371-0466. RSVP by Friday, March 28th.

Save the Date: Come join Madonna University’s Respect Life Group for a Pro-Life Youth Conference “Save the Storks” on Saturday, April 12th from 10-3:00 p.m. This is open to all high school students, college students and young adults. The cost is $15.00 per person ($10.00 Madonna University students). Please contact the Educational Center for Life, at 248-816-8489 or to go to www.edcenterforlife.org. Registration begins on February 3rd. Location: Franciscan Center, 36600 Schoolcraft Rd, Livonia 48150.

Good Friday “Way of the Cross” at Planned Parenthood in Ann ArborPlease join us for The Way of the Cross for Victims of Abortion, on Good Friday, April 18th at 10:00 am at Planned Parenthood, 3100 Professional Drive in Ann Arbor. Through His Holy Passion, Our Lord united Himself with all the victims of suffering in this life. None suffer more innocently than children in the womb whose lives are taken by abortion. None suffer more deeply than their mothers, who carry such a burden of guilt and shame. On Good Friday we remember all the victims of abortion—the children lost, the mothers wounded, the communities blighted—in a solemn, ecumenical prayer service. More info: Call or email Sandie Weathers at 734-434-8447 or prolifeactionnetwork@gmail.com.

Right to Life – LIFESPAN’s Annual “Celebrate Life” Dinner will be on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, at the San Marino Club in Troy.  Doors open at 5:45 p.m. with dinner at 7:15 p.m.  There will be a Silent Auction and “Tin Can Raffle”.  Cost is $25.00 per person for 21 years old and younger, $50.00 per person for over 21 years old.  The keynote speaker is Ryan Bomberger, Radiance Foundation CEO.  Ryan’s mother was raped, yet she courageously chose to give him Life.  He was adopted as a baby and grew up in a loving, multi-racial Christian family of 15.  With siblings of varying ethnicities, he grew up with a great appreciation for diversity.  Ten of the 13 children were adopted in this remarkable family.  His life defies the myth of the “unwanted” child as he was adopted, loved and has flourished.  He and his wife, Bethany, have four adopted children.  The Radiance Foundation has made an unexpected impact on the Pro-Life Movement with the bold TooManyAborted.com billboard/web campaigns.  Please call 248-816-1546 or e-mail oakmac@rtl-lifespan.org for further details about the dinner.  Reservations are required in advance.

Right to Life of Michigan Educational Fund is hosting a Youth Infographic Contest for high school and college-aged Michigan youth. Prolife youth from Michigan ages 13 to 22 as of July 1, 2014, can create and submit an original infographic, and contest finalists will have their works shared on the RLM FB page and judged by a public vote to determine the winners. An infographic is a graphic or visual representation of information, data or knowledge intended to present complex information quickly and clearly. Contestants will be split into two divisions, 13-17 and 18-22 with a first division prize of $300 and second division prize of $500. The deadline for submissions is Tuesday, July 1, 2014. For info and application go to: .http://www.rtl.org/faith_school/infographiccontest.html 

PREGNANT?  Know someone who might be? Find out for sure. Free and confidential services for all ages including pregnancy testing, ultrasounds to date and confirm pregnancy and options counseling. Where: Arbor Vitae, downtown Ann Arbor located at the corner of State and Liberty (below Starbucks) When: Monday and Thursday 9am-4pm; Tuesday 2pm-8pm How: Walk in or make an appointment online at http://arborwoman.com/request-an-appointment/ Questions: Call 734-994-8863

Family Life Services is in need of maternity clothing in all sizes and 3T-6 boys/girls clothing. If you have these items (new or gently used) and would like to donate them to a family in need, please drop them off at the center during our open hours. Tax receipts are available. FLS is located at 2950 Packard Road in Ypsilanti. Info contact Emily at (734) 434-3088.

To be added to the Prolife Action Network email group and receive updates for Life Chain,

Local Pro-Life Events and Religious Liberty Issues and Events

and to submit info on a Pro-Life event:

Contact Sandie Weathers prolifeactionnetwork@gmail.com or

Marilyn Geyer at 734-973-2422 or mgeyer@provide.net

* Visit us on Facebook: Prolife Action Network


 


2014-03-28 Enjoy Pics of Stand Up Coalition Rally in Ann Arbor! We Stand With Hobby Lobby!






A great big THANK YOU to those that braved the really,.really cold temperature to rally with us at the Ann Arbor Stand Up For Religious Freedom Prayer Rally on the Geddes Road Exit Walkway this past Tuesday, March 25th, the Feast of the Annunciation, when the U.S. Supreme Court was hearing arguments regarding how the HHS Mandate applies to for-profit businesses, specifically Sebelius v. Hobby Lobby and Conestoga Wood Specialties v. Sebelius. I would also like to thank those that came out to the intersection of Washtenaw and Huron Parkway and to Marilyn Geyer for holding down the fort.

The photo on the bottom is of the U of M Diag Rally to Commemorate the Annun-ciation and Defeat the HHS Mandate hosted by Catholic Street Evangelization at U-M.

I really want to apologize to anyone who attempted to join us on Geddes, but was unable to find us. Pastor Charles Schulz, from Concordia University eagerly secured permission for us to park on the campus, but when I gave out details for the event, I gave out parking information, but I failed to mention, to head over to the Geddes Road Exit WALKWAY over US 23 to rally. Thanks and apologies go out to Marcia, who kindly brought this to my attention on Thursday morning. She really put a lot of effort into finding us. If you came out and couldn’t find us either, please know that I am sincerely very sorry for my over sight.


Wednesday, March 26, 2014

2014-03-27 Updated - Upcoming Pro-Life Events and News Washtenaw County and Beyond!


Partial list as of March 26th, 2014 Compiled by Sandie Weathers

PREGNANT?  Know someone who might be? Find out for sure. Free and confidential services for all ages including pregnancy testing, ultrasounds to date and confirm pregnancy and options counseling. Where: Arbor Vitae, downtown Ann Arbor located at the corner of State and Liberty (below Starbucks) When: Monday and Thursday 9am-4pm; Tuesday 2pm-8pm How: Walk in or make an appointment online at http://arborwoman.com/request-an-appointment/ Questions: Call 734-994-8863.

40 Days For Life News:
253 communities across North America and around the world began 40 Days For Life 2014 Spring Campaigns on Ash Wednesday, March 5th and will conclude on Palm Sunday, April 13th. 40 Days for Life (40 DFL) is a focused pro-life campaign with a vision to access God’s power through prayer, fasting, and peaceful vigil to end abortion.

Ann Arbor: We are again holding a prayer vigil at the Ann Arbor Planned Parenthood Facility, 3100 Professional Drive. To sign up for an hour of prayer at Planned Parenthood, please go to: http://40daysforlife.com/annarbor.html.   For add’l info contact Campaign Director, Kate Astrakhan at kateastrakhan@gmail.com or 734-249-4944. LIKE us on FB:  www.facebook.com/40daysforlifeannarbor    International website: http://www.40daysforlife.com/

Ann Arbor: Please join us, Saturday, March 29th at 11:30 am at Planned Parenthood, 3100 Professional Drive, Ann Arbor for Byzantine Catholic Pro-Life Activism--Akathist Hymn to the Mother of God. For centuries, Eastern Christians, both Orthodox and Eastern Catholic, have prayed the Akathist Hymn to ask the intercession and protection of the Mother of God. Therefore, it is the perfect prayer to use for the purpose of asking for the Blessed Virgin's assistance in defeating the culture of death. FB Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1409424212653395/?notif_t=plan_user_invited.

Ann Arbor: Visit by Steve Karlen from National 40 Days for Life team on Wednesday, April 2nd at 9:00 AM - Steve will be visiting all of the Michigan 40 DFL sites in a whirlwind tour of our state.  Steve was instrumental in having abortions stopped at a Wisconsin hospital and is now on the National 40 DFL team. Come and hear Steve’s inspiring stories.

Southfield: The Spring/Lent 2014 40 Days for Life campaign at Womancare of Southfield, starts March 5 (Ash Wednesday) and ends at 4 p.m. on April 13 (Palm Sunday).  We are emphasizing the Fasting aspects along with the Prayer at the vigil site (and elsewhere).

Our Lady of Czestochowa - the Black Madonna, coming to Michigan locations:
 -March 26 – SS. Peter and Paul Church (West Side) in Detroit, MI
-March 27 – Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Lapeer, MI
-March 28 – Our Lady of Czestochowa Church in Sterling Heights, MI
-March 29-30 – St. Isidore’s Church in Grand Rapids, MI
-March 31 – St. Mary’s Cathedral in Lansing, MI
The Black Madonna has been traveling the world since 2012 defending LIFE and for the pro-life movement. More details will be coming! Learn more at the Ocean To Ocean Campaign In Defense of Life at http://www.hli.org/hli_campaigns/ocean-ocean-pilgrimage/

The 40 Film is showing on Saturday, March 29, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. and on Sunday, March 30th at 4:00 pm at Madonna University’s Franciscan Center (Room S100) at 36600 Schoolcraft Road, Livonia, MI 48150. This documentary investigates the effects of abortion over the last 40 years. Open to all students, faculty and community members, with babysitting for families with children available. Watch trailer at: www.the40film.com. Dr. Monica Miller, Director of Citizens for a Pro-life Society, Madonna University professor and author of Abandoned: The Untold Story of the Abortion Wars will be present at both screenings. Admission is a free will donation. Buy tickets here: http://40-film-screening-madonna.eventbrite.com/. For info contact: Marisa Rosenbaum at respect.life@my.madonna.edu or 248-825-7395. or 248-825-7395.

Pregnancy Helpline Annual Celebration of Life will take place April 3, at 6:30PM. Nationally renowned speaker and former abortionist Dr. Levatino and his wife Ceil will keynote the annual Pregnancy Helpline Celebration of Life fund and awareness raising celebration. The event will also feature our famous Appetizer & Dessert Buffet, Baskets for Life Challenge, Silent Auction, a client testimony, great music, and more! Where:  The Brighton Church of the Nazarene - 7669 Brighton Rd, Brighton. Cost:  $20 each - groups of 10 or more $18 each. Pastors and a guest Free!

RLM Annual High School Oratory Contest, sponsored by Washtenaw & Western Wayne County RTL, will take place on Saturday, April 5th at Domino's Farms, EBA Cafe (lobby H, lower level). Obtain application, promotional flyer, rules & regulations go to: http://www.rtl.org/faith_school/oratory/oratorycontest.html. Or contact Karen Walacavage at (734)930-7474 or email:kwalacavage@rtl.org.

On Thursday, April 10th, the Knights of Columbus Michigan State Council will be hosting the 36th Annual Respect Life Dinner to benefit the Right to Life of Michigan Educational Fund. This year our special guest speaker is Chris Godfrey, Life Athletes Founder and President.  The Burton Manor in Livonia is located at 27777 Schoolcraft 48150. Social hour begins at 6:00 pm, dinner at 7:00 pm. Register on line at http://rtl.org/events/kofc/respectlife.html. For more details contact www.rtl.org or respectlife@rtl.org or (248) 371-0466. RSVP by Friday, March 28th.

Save the Date: Come join Madonna University’s Respect Life Group for a Pro-Life Youth Conference “Save the Storks” on Saturday, April 12th from 10-3:00 p.m. This is open to all high school students, college students and young adults. The cost is $15.00 per person ($10.00 Madonna University students). Please contact the Educational Center for Life, at 248-816-8489 or to go to www.edcenterforlife.org. Registration begins on February 3rd. Location: Franciscan Center, 36600 Schoolcraft Rd, Livonia 48150.

Good Friday “Way of the Cross” at Planned Parenthood in Ann Arbor
Please join us for The Way of the Cross for Victims of Abortion, on Good Friday, April 18th at 10:00 am at Planned Parenthood, 3100 Professional Drive in Ann Arbor. Through His Holy Passion, Our Lord united Himself with all the victims of suffering in this life. None suffer more innocently than children in the womb whose lives are taken by abortion. None suffer more deeply than their mothers, who carry such a burden of guilt and shame. On Good Friday we remember all the victims of abortion—the children lost, the mothers wounded, the communities blighted—in a solemn, ecumenical prayer service. More info: Call or email Sandie Weathers at 734-434-8447 or prolifeactionnetwork@gmail.com.

Right to Life – LIFESPAN’s Annual “Celebrate Life” Dinner will be on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, at the San Marino Club in Troy.  Doors open at 5:45 p.m. with dinner at 7:15 p.m.  There will be a Silent Auction and “Tin Can Raffle”.  Cost is $25.00 per person for 21 years old and younger, $50.00 per person for over 21 years old.  The keynote speaker is Ryan Bomberger, Radiance Foundation CEO.  Ryan’s mother was raped, yet she courageously chose to give him Life.  He was adopted as a baby and grew up in a loving, multi-racial Christian family of 15.  With siblings of varying ethnicities, he grew up with a great appreciation for diversity.  Ten of the 13 children were adopted in this remarkable family.  His life defies the myth of the “unwanted” child as he was adopted, loved and has flourished.  He and his wife, Bethany, have four adopted children.  The Radiance Foundation has made an unexpected impact on the Pro-Life Movement with the bold TooManyAborted.com billboard/web campaigns.  Please call 248-816-1546 or e-mail oakmac@rtl-lifespan.org for further details about the dinner.  Reservations are required in advance.

Right to Life of Michigan Educational Fund is hosting a Youth Infographic Contest for high school and college-aged Michigan youth. Prolife youth from Michigan ages 13 to 22 as of July 1, 2014, can create and submit an original infographic, and contest finalists will have their works shared on the RLM FB page and judged by a public vote to determine the winners. An infographic is a graphic or visual representation of information, data or knowledge intended to present complex information quickly and clearly. Contestants will be split into two divisions, 13-17 and 18-22 with a first division prize of $300 and second division prize of $500. The deadline for submissions is Tuesday, July 1, 2014. For info and application go to: .http://www.rtl.org/faith_school/infographiccontest.html

Family Life Services is in need of maternity clothing in all sizes and 3T-6 boys/girls clothing. If you have these items (new or gently used) and would like to donate them to a family in need, please drop them off at the center during our open hours. Tax receipts are available. FLS is located at 2950 Packard Road in Ypsilanti. Info contact Emily at (734) 434-3088.

To be added to the Prolife Action Network email group and receive updates for Life Chain,
Local Pro-Life Events and Religious Liberty Issues and Events
and to submit info on a Pro-Life event:
Contact Sandie Weathers prolifeactionnetwork@gmail.com or
Marilyn Geyer at 734-973-2422 or mgeyer@provide.net

Visit us on Facebook: Prolife Action Network        

2014-03-26 Ann Arbor, MI Pregnant? Know Someone who might be?

PREGNANT?  Know someone who might be? Find out for sure. Free and confidential services for all ages including pregnancy testing, ultrasounds to date and confirm pregnancy and options counseling. Where: Arbor Vitae, downtown Ann Arbor located at the corner of State and Liberty (below Starbucks) When: Monday and Thursday 9am-4pm; Tuesday 2pm-8pm How: Walk in or make an appointment online at http://arborwoman.com/request-an-appointment/ Questions: Call 734-994-8863.

Sunday, March 23, 2014

2014-03-25 Supreme Court Hears HHS Mandate Cases and Upcoming Events

For Washtenaw County and Beyond!
Partial list as of March 24th, 2014 Compiled by Sandie Weathers

On March 25, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in the historic Sebelius v. Hobby Lobby and Conestoga Wood Specialties v. Sebelius cases which challenge the Obama Administration’s HHS Mandate, which are the first cases to be heard in the high court.

Join the Tweet Storm: From 9am-Noon on March 25, join a tweet storm for religious freedom to set the record straight on the mandate. Suggested tweets are below. Use the #religiousfreedomforall hashtag to draw national attention to our side. Sample Tweets Promoting #religiousfreedomforall: The HHS mandate forces the Green family to choose between violating their faith and violating the law. Let’s have #ReligiousFreedomForAll For a more complete list, please go to:   http://standuprally.com/2014/march25

Interfaith Prayers to Stop the HHS Mandate – on Day 7! We can fight injustice in many different ways, but we must never forget that our strongest weapon is prayer. Pray for Hobby Lobby and Conestoga cases and the defeat of the HHS Mandate. Though the devotion has its roots in Catholic spirituality, the prayers here are ones that people of any Christian tradition can pray. For entire novena, please go to: http://standupforreligiousfreedom.com/2011/entirenovena/#sthash.ndeIPw6B.dpuf

Stand Up Coalition to Rally at U.S. Supreme Court March 25 for HUGE Hobby Lobby Case! On March 25, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in the historic Sebelius v. Hobby Lobby and Conestoga Wood Specialties v. Sebelius cases which challenge the Obama Administration’s HHS Mandate, and the Stand Up For Religious Freedom Rally Coalition will be there. Check out the prayer vigil and rally at the U. S. Supreme Court from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on March 25. FB event:  https://www.facebook.com/events/204627633079260/.

Here in Washtenaw County two prayer rallies are being held to coincide with the Rally in Washington D.C. on Tuesday, March 25th from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. 1st location: Intersection of Washtenaw Ave & Huron Parkway in Ann Arbor (site of the annual Oct. Life Chain). 2nd location: Geddes Road Exit off of U.S. 23. Park and meet at Concordia University, 4090 Geddes Road in Ann Arbor. After exiting onto Geddes Road, go west on Geddes Road and turn south onto the first drive into Concordia University on the left. Follow the signs to the student housing parking lots. Rally signs will be available or you can make your own. Want to help, contact Sandie Weathers prolifeactionnetwork@gmail.com or 734-657-1936. For updates go to:  http://pro-lifeactionnetworkblog.blogspot.com/. Please remember our purpose is prayer and to Stand Up For Religious Freedom!

U of M Diag Rally to Commemorate the Annunciation and Defeat the HHS Mandate at University of Michigan Diag on Tuesday, March 25th from 5:55 pm to 6:25 pm. Tuesday, the Feast of the Annunciation, marks 2014 years since the Word was made flesh in the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is also the day the HHS mandate will be argued before the U.S. Supreme Court. Please join us on the U-M Diag for Marian prayers and hymns both commemorating Mary's "yes" to Our Lord and begging her intercession to preserve the Church's freedom to carry out Christ's saving work. Note: The Angelus will begin EXACTLY at 6:00pm! Rally programs will be provided. -Sponsored by Catholic Street Evangelization at U-M. FB event:  https://www.facebook.com/events/539415809505017/

The 40 Film is showing Tuesday, March 25th at 7:00pm (doors open at 6:30) at the Maple Theater in Bloomfield Hills, 4135 Maple Road (west of Telegraph). For more info visit Themapletheatre.com or call 248-877-1000.This documentary investigates the effects of abortion over the last 40 years. Many well known prolife speakers are featured. If you would like to watch the trailer, go to www.the40film.com. Producer: Pro-Life Champions.


On Tuesday, March 25th, the Feast of the Annunciation, there will be a Mass, Chaplet and Rosary for the Unborn at St. Faustina Church in Warren (Formerly St. Edmunds). The Rosary begins at 6:30 P.M., the Mass at 7:00 P.M. and the Chaplet will be recited after the Mass. Info: Sarah Lonardo at helpersmi@gmail.com.

40 Days For Life News:
253 communities across North America and around the world began 40 Days For Life 2014 Spring Campaigns on Ash Wednesday, March 5th and will conclude on Palm Sunday, April 13th. 40 Days for Life (40 DFL) is a focused pro-life campaign with a vision to access God’s power through prayer, fasting, and peaceful vigil to end abortion.

Ann Arbor: We are again holding a prayer vigil at the Ann Arbor Planned Parenthood Facility, 3100 Professional Drive. To sign up for an hour of prayer at Planned Parenthood, please go to: http://40daysforlife.com/annarbor.html.   For add’l info contact Campaign Director, Kate Astrakhan at kateastrakhan@gmail.com or 734-249-4944. LIKE us on FB:  www.facebook.com/40daysforlifeannarbor    International website: http://www.40daysforlife.com/

Ann Arbor: Please join us, Saturday, March 29th at 11:30 am at Planned Parenthood, 3100 Professional Drive, Ann Arbor for Byzantine Catholic Pro-Life Activism--Akathist Hymn to the Mother of God. For centuries, Eastern Christians, both Orthodox and Eastern Catholic, have prayed the Akathist Hymn to ask the intercession and protection of the Mother of God. Therefore, it is the perfect prayer to use for the purpose of asking for the Blessed Virgin's assistance in defeating the culture of death. FB Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1409424212653395/?notif_t=plan_user_invited.

Ann Arbor: Visit by Steve Karlen from National 40 Days for Life team on Wednesday, April 2nd at 9:00 AM - Steve will be visiting all of the Michigan 40 DFL sites in a whirlwind tour of our state.  Steve was instrumental in having abortions stopped at a Wisconsin hospital and is now on the National 40 DFL team. Come and hear Steve’s inspiring stories.

Southfield: The Spring/Lent 2014 40 Days for Life campaign at Womancare of Southfield, starts March 5 (Ash Wednesday) and ends at 4 p.m. on April 13 (Palm Sunday).  We are emphasizing the Fasting aspects along with the Prayer at the vigil site (and elsewhere).

Our Lady of Czestochowa - the Black Madonna, coming to Michigan locations:
-March 25 – SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary in Orchard Lake, MI
-March 26 – SS. Peter and Paul Church (West Side) in Detroit, MI
-March 27 – Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Lapeer, MI
-March 28 – Our Lady of Czestochowa Church in Sterling Heights, MI
-March 29-30 – St. Isidore’s Church in Grand Rapids, MI
-March 31 – St. Mary’s Cathedral in Lansing, MI
The Black Madonna has been traveling the world since 2012 defending LIFE and for the pro-life movement. More details will be coming! Learn more at the Ocean To Ocean Campaign In Defense of Life at http://www.hli.org/hli_campaigns/ocean-ocean-pilgrimage/

Pregnancy Helpline Annual Celebration of Life will take place April 3, at 6:30PM. Nationally renowned speaker and former abortionist Dr. Levatino and his wife Ceil will keynote the annual Pregnancy Helpline Celebration of Life fund and awareness raising celebration. The event will also feature our famous Appetizer & Dessert Buffet, Baskets for Life Challenge, Silent Auction, a client testimony, great music, and more! Where:  The Brighton Church of the Nazarene - 7669 Brighton Rd, Brighton. Cost:  $20 each - groups of 10 or more $18 each. Pastors and a guest Free!

RLM Annual High School Oratory Contest, sponsored by Washtenaw & Western Wayne County RTL, will take place on Saturday, April 5th at Domino's Farms, EBA Cafe (lobby H, lower level). Obtain application, promotional flyer, rules & regulations go to: http://www.rtl.org/faith_school/oratory/oratorycontest.html. Or contact Karen Walacavage at (734)930-7474 or email:kwalacavage@rtl.org.

On Thursday, April 10th, the Knights of Columbus Michigan State Council will be hosting the 36th Annual Respect Life Dinner to benefit the Right to Life of Michigan Educational Fund. This year our special guest speaker is Chris Godfrey, Life Athletes Founder and President.  The Burton Manor in Livonia is located at 27777 Schoolcraft 48150. Social hour begins at 6:00 pm, dinner at 7:00 pm. Register on line at http://rtl.org/events/kofc/respectlife.html. For more details contact www.rtl.org or respectlife@rtl.org or (248) 371-0466. RSVP by Friday, March 28th.

Save the Date: Come join Madonna University’s Respect Life Group for a Pro-Life Youth Conference “Save the Storks” on Saturday, April 12th from 10-3:00 p.m. This is open to all high school students, college students and young adults. The cost is $15.00 per person ($10.00 Madonna University students). Please contact the Educational Center for Life, at 248-816-8489 or to go to www.edcenterforlife.org. Registration begins on February 3rd. Location: Franciscan Center, 36600 Schoolcraft Rd, Livonia 48150.

Good Friday “Way of the Cross” at Planned Parenthood in Ann Arbor
Please join us for The Way of the Cross for Victims of Abortion, on Good Friday, April 18th at 10:00 am at Planned Parenthood, 3100 Professional Drive in Ann Arbor. Through His Holy Passion, Our Lord united Himself with all the victims of suffering in this life. None suffer more innocently than children in the womb whose lives are taken by abortion. None suffer more deeply than their mothers, who carry such a burden of guilt and shame. On Good Friday we remember all the victims of abortion—the children lost, the mothers wounded, the communities blighted—in a solemn, ecumenical prayer service. More info: Call or email Sandie Weathers at 734-434-8447 or prolifeactionnetwork@gmail.com.

Right to Life – LIFESPAN’s Annual “Celebrate Life” Dinner will be on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, at the San Marino Club in Troy.  Doors open at 5:45 p.m. with dinner at 7:15 p.m.  There will be a Silent Auction and “Tin Can Raffle”.  Cost is $25.00 per person for 21 years old and younger, $50.00 per person for over 21 years old.  The keynote speaker is Ryan Bomberger, Radiance Foundation CEO.  Ryan’s mother was raped, yet she courageously chose to give him Life.  He was adopted as a baby and grew up in a loving, multi-racial Christian family of 15.  With siblings of varying ethnicities, he grew up with a great appreciation for diversity.  Ten of the 13 children were adopted in this remarkable family.  His life defies the myth of the “unwanted” child as he was adopted, loved and has flourished.  He and his wife, Bethany, have four adopted children.  The Radiance Foundation has made an unexpected impact on the Pro-Life Movement with the bold TooManyAborted.com billboard/web campaigns.  Please call 248-816-1546 or e-mail oakmac@rtl-lifespan.org for further details about the dinner.  Reservations are required in advance.

Right to Life of Michigan Educational Fund is hosting a Youth Infographic Contest for high school and college-aged Michigan youth. Prolife youth from Michigan ages 13 to 22 as of July 1, 2014, can create and submit an original infographic, and contest finalists will have their works shared on the RLM FB page and judged by a public vote to determine the winners. An infographic is a graphic or visual representation of information, data or knowledge intended to present complex information quickly and clearly. Contestants will be split into two divisions, 13-17 and 18-22 with a first division prize of $300 and second division prize of $500. The deadline for submissions is Tuesday, July 1, 2014. For info and application go to: .http://www.rtl.org/faith_school/infographiccontest.html
  
Family Life Services is in need of maternity clothing in all sizes and 3T-6 boys/girls clothing. If you have these items (new or gently used) and would like to donate them to a family in need, please drop them off at the center during our open hours. Tax receipts are available. FLS is located at 2950 Packard Road in Ypsilanti. Info contact Emily at (734) 434-3088.

To be added to the Prolife Action Network email group and receive updates for Life Chain,
Local Pro-Life Events and Religious Liberty Issues and Events
and to submit info on a Pro-Life event:
Contact Sandie Weathers prolifeactionnetwork@gmail.com or
Marilyn Geyer at 734-973-2422 or mgeyer@provide.net

 Visit us on Facebook: Prolife Action Network        

Diag Rally to Commemorate the Annunciation and Defeat the HHS Mandate

U of M Diag Rally to Commemorate the Annunciation and Defeat the HHS Mandate at University of Michigan Diag on Tuesday, March 25th from 5:55 pm to 6:25 pm. Tuesday, the Feast of the Annunciation, marks 2014 years since the Word was made flesh in the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is also the day the HHS mandate will be argued before the U.S. Supreme Court. Please join us on the U-M Diag for Marian prayers and hymns both commemorating Mary's "yes" to Our Lord and begging her intercession to preserve the Church's freedom to carry out Christ's saving work. Note: The Angelus will begin EXACTLY at 6:00pm! Rally programs will be provided. -Sponsored by Catholic Street Evangelization at U-M. FB event: https://www.facebook.com/events/539415809505017/

2014-03-23 Update of Upcoming Pro-Life Events and News

Washtenaw County and Beyond
Partial list as of March 23rd, 2014 Compiled by Sandie Weathers

Join in the Interfaith Novena to Stop the HHS Mandate – on Day 7! We can fight injustice in many different ways, but we must never forget that our strongest weapon is prayer. A novena is a nine day prayer sequence for a particular intention, in this case the Hobby Lobby and Conestoga cases and the defeat of the HHS Mandate. Though the devotion has its roots in Catholic spirituality, the prayers here are ones that people of any Christian tradition can pray. For entire novena, please go to: http://standupforreligiousfreedom.com/2011/entirenovena/#sthash.ndeIPw6B.dpuf

40 Days For Life News:
Ann Arbor:  253 communities across North America and around the world began 40 Days For Life 2014 Spring Campaigns on Ash Wednesday, March 5th and will conclude on Palm Sunday, April 13th. 40 Days for Life (40 DFL) is a focused pro-life campaign with a vision to access God’s power through prayer, fasting, and peaceful vigil to end abortion. Here in Ann Arbor, we are again holding a prayer vigil at the Ann Arbor Planned Parenthood Facility, 3100 Professional Drive. For add’l info contact Campaign Director, Kate Astrakhan at kateastrakhan@gmail.com or 734-249-4944 or go to: http://40daysforlife.com/annarbor.html.  LIKE us on FB:   www.facebook.com/40daysforlifeannarbor    International website: http://www.40daysforlife.com/

Ann Arbor: Visit by Steve Karlen from National 40 Days for Life team on Wednesday, April 2nd at 9:00 AM - Steve will be visiting all of the Michigan 40 DFL sites in a whirlwind tour of our state.  Steve was instrumental in having abortions stopped at a Wisconsin hospital and is now on the National 40 DFL team. Come and hear Steve’s inspiring stories.

Southfield: The Spring/Lent 2014 40 Days for Life campaign at Womancare of Southfield, starts March 5 (Ash Wednesday) and ends at 4 p.m. on April 13 (Palm Sunday).  We are emphasizing the Fasting aspects along with the Prayer at the vigil site (and elsewhere).

Knights of Columbus Day of Prayer for the Unborn Child! All Knights and the local community are invited to commemorate the Knights of Columbus Day of Prayer for the Unborn Child by participating in a Living Rosary and Chaplet at 3 PM on Sunday, March 23, 2014Deacon Rich Badics from St. Francis Catholic Church will lead the prayer hour at Planned Parenthood, 3100 Professional Dr. in Ann Arbor.  This will be the 5th annual event held close to the Feast of the Annunciation to encourage Knights, their families and friends to stand together in public to pray for an end to abortion. Questions? Paul at 40daysannarbor@gmail.com.

U of M Diag Rally to Commemorate the Annunciation and Defeat the HHS Mandate at University of Michigan Diag on Tuesday, March 25th from 5:55 pm to 6:25 pm. Tuesday, the Feast of the Annunciation, marks 2014 years since the Word was made flesh in the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is also the day the HHS mandate will be argued before the U.S. Supreme Court. Please join us on the U-M Diag for Marian prayers and hymns both commemorating Mary's "yes" to Our Lord and begging her intercession to preserve the Church's freedom to carry out Christ's saving work. Note: The Angelus will begin EXACTLY at 6:00pm! Rally programs will be provided. -Sponsored by Catholic Street Evangelization at U-M. FB event:  https://www.facebook.com/events/539415809505017/

Stand Up Coalition to Rally at U.S. Supreme Court March 25 for HUGE Hobby Lobby Case! On March 25th, the Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in the historic Sebelius v. Hobby Lobby and Conestoga Wood Specialties v. Sebelius cases which challenge the current administration’s HHS Mandate and the Stand Up For Religious Freedom Rally Coalition will be there. Join us for a prayer vigil and rally at the U. S. Supreme Court from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on March 25. FB event:  https://www.facebook.com/events/204627633079260/.

Can’t go to D.C.: Here in Washtenaw County two prayer rallies are being held to coincide with the Rally in Washington D.C. on Tuesday, March 25th from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. 1st location: Intersection of Washtenaw Ave & Huron Parkway in Ann Arbor (site of the annual Oct. Life Chain). 2nd location: Geddes Road Exit off of U.S. 23. Park and meet at Concordia University, 4090 Geddes Road in Ann Arbor. After exiting onto Geddes Road, go west on Geddes Road and turn south onto the first drive into Concordia University on the left. Follow the signs to the student housing parking lots. Rally signs will be available or you can make your own. Want to help, contact Sandie Weathers prolifeactionnetwork@gmail.com or 734-657-1936. For updates go to:  http://pro-lifeactionnetworkblog.blogspot.com/. Please remember our purpose is prayer and to Stand Up For Religious Freedom!

 

The 40 Film is showing Tuesday, March 25th at 7:00pm (doors open at 6:30) at the Maple Theater in Bloomfield Hills, 4135 Maple Road (west of Telegraph). For more info visit Themapletheatre.com or call 248-877-1000.This documentary investigates the effects of abortion over the last 40 years. Many well known prolife speakers are featured. If you would like to watch the trailer, go to www.the40film.com. Producer: Pro-Life Champions.


On Tuesday, March 25th, the Feast of the Annunciation, there will be a Mass, Chaplet and Rosary for the Unborn at St. Faustina Church in Warren (Formerly St. Edmunds). The Rosary begins at 6:30 P.M., the Mass at 7:00 P.M. and the Chaplet will be recited after the Mass. Info: Sarah Lonardo at helpersmi@gmail.com.
               
Our Lady of Czestochowa - the Black Madonna, coming to Michigan locations:
-March 25 – SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary in Orchard Lake, MI
-March 26 – SS. Peter and Paul Church (West Side) in Detroit, MI
-March 27 – Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Lapeer, MI
-March 28 – Our Lady of Czestochowa Church in Sterling Heights, MI
-March 29-30 – St. Isidore’s Church in Grand Rapids, MI
-March 31 – St. Mary’s Cathedral in Lansing, MI
The Black Madonna has been traveling the world since 2012 defending LIFE and for the pro-life movement. More details will be coming! Learn more at the Ocean To Ocean Campaign In Defense of Life at http://www.hli.org/hli_campaigns/ocean-ocean-pilgrimage/

Pregnancy Helpline Annual Celebration of Life will take place April 3, at 6:30PM. Nationally renowned speaker and former abortionist Dr. Levatino and his wife Ceil will keynote the annual Pregnancy Helpline Celebration of Life fund and awareness raising celebration. The event will also feature our famous Appetizer & Dessert Buffet, Baskets for Life Challenge, Silent Auction, a client testimony, great music, and more! Where:  The Brighton Church of the Nazarene - 7669 Brighton Rd, Brighton. Cost:  $20 each - groups of 10 or more $18 each. Pastors and a guest Free!

RLM Annual High School Oratory Contest, sponsored by Washtenaw & Western Wayne County RTL, will take place on Saturday, April 5th at Domino's Farms, EBA Cafe (lobby H, lower level). Obtain application, promotional flyer, rules & regulations go to: http://www.rtl.org/faith_school/oratory/oratorycontest.html. Or contact Karen Walacavage at (734)930-7474 or email:kwalacavage@rtl.org.

On Thursday, April 10th, the Knights of Columbus Michigan State Council will be hosting the 36th Annual Respect Life Dinner to benefit the Right to Life of Michigan Educational Fund. This year our special guest speaker is Chris Godfrey, Life Athletes Founder and President.  The Burton Manor in Livonia is located at 27777 Schoolcraft 48150. Social hour begins at 6:00 pm, dinner at 7:00 pm. Register on line at http://rtl.org/events/kofc/respectlife.html. For more details contact www.rtl.org or respectlife@rtl.org or (248) 371-0466. RSVP by Friday, March 28th.

Save the Date: Come join Madonna University’s Respect Life Group for a Pro-Life Youth Conference “Save the Storks” on Saturday, April 12th from 10-3:00 p.m. This is open to all high school students, college students and young adults. The cost is $15.00 per person ($10.00 Madonna University students). Please contact the Educational Center for Life, at 248-816-8489 or to go to www.edcenterforlife.org. Registration begins on February 3rd. Location: Franciscan Center, 36600 Schoolcraft Rd, Livonia 48150.

Good Friday “Way of the Cross” at Planned Parenthood in Ann Arbor
Please join us for The Way of the Cross for Victims of Abortion, on Good Friday, April 18th at 10:00 am at Planned Parenthood, 3100 Professional Drive in Ann Arbor. Through His Holy Passion, Our Lord united Himself with all the victims of suffering in this life. None suffer more innocently than children in the womb whose lives are taken by abortion. None suffer more deeply than their mothers, who carry such a burden of guilt and shame. On Good Friday we remember all the victims of abortion—the children lost, the mothers wounded, the communities blighted—in a solemn, ecumenical prayer service. More info: Call or email Sandie Weathers at 734-434-8447 or prolifeactionnetwork@gmail.com.

Right to Life – LIFESPAN’s Annual “Celebrate Life” Dinner will be on Tuesday, May 6, 2014, at the San Marino Club in Troy.  Doors open at 5:45 p.m. with dinner at 7:15 p.m.  There will be a Silent Auction and “Tin Can Raffle”.  Cost is $25.00 per person for 21 years old and younger, $50.00 per person for over 21 years old.  The keynote speaker is Ryan Bomberger, Radiance Foundation CEO.  Ryan’s mother was raped, yet she courageously chose to give him Life.  He was adopted as a baby and grew up in a loving, multi-racial Christian family of 15.  With siblings of varying ethnicities, he grew up with a great appreciation for diversity.  Ten of the 13 children were adopted in this remarkable family.  His life defies the myth of the “unwanted” child as he was adopted, loved and has flourished.  He and his wife, Bethany, have four adopted children.  The Radiance Foundation has made an unexpected impact on the Pro-Life Movement with the bold TooManyAborted.com billboard/web campaigns.  Please call 248-816-1546 or e-mail oakmac@rtl-lifespan.org for further details about the dinner.  Reservations are required in advance.

Right to Life of Michigan Educational Fund is hosting a Youth Infographic Contest for high school and college-aged Michigan youth. Prolife youth from Michigan ages 13 to 22 as of July 1, 2014, can create and submit an original infographic, and contest finalists will have their works shared on the RLM FB page and judged by a public vote to determine the winners. An infographic is a graphic or visual representation of information, data or knowledge intended to present complex information quickly and clearly. Contestants will be split into two divisions, 13-17 and 18-22 with a first division prize of $300 and second division prize of $500. The deadline for submissions is Tuesday, July 1, 2014. For info and application go to: .http://www.rtl.org/faith_school/infographiccontest.html

Family Life Services is in need of maternity clothing in all sizes and 3T-6 boys/girls clothing. If you have these items (new or gently used) and would like to donate them to a family in need, please drop them off at the center during our open hours. Tax receipts are available. FLS is located at 2950 Packard Road in Ypsilanti. Info contact Emily at (734) 434-3088.

Prolife 101 is an online 6-week educational course provided by Right to Life of Michigan.  Our first class will start soon!  During the course, participants will learn about the history of the prolife movement, the reality of abortion, fetal development,  prolife apologetics, Planned Parenthood’s abortion agenda, and ways to participate in the future of the prolife movement. Visit RTL.org to learn when the next Prolife 101 course will begin. Or, send an e-mail message to info@rtl.org to request the Prolife 101 Informational Packet. Certificates of Completion will be given to those who complete the course.  http://media.rtl.org/pdf/Prolife_101.pdf.

To be added to the Prolife Action Network email group and receive updates for Life Chain,
Local Pro-Life Events and Religious Liberty Issues and Events
and to submit info on a Pro-Life event:
Contact Sandie Weathers prolifeactionnetwork@gmail.com or
Marilyn Geyer at 734-973-2422 or mgeyer@provide.net

 Visit us on Facebook: Prolife Action Network