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Published: February 18, 2010

“Imitating Christ”

San Diego bishop endorses 40 Days for Life

The following is a letter of encouragement by San Diego Bishop Robert Brom for the Lenten 40 Days for Life campaign, which began yesterday.

Dear Friends of Life:

The initial “40 Days for Life” campaign in North San Diego County that concluded in November of 2009 was a laudable event which brought together hundreds of people of various faith backgrounds in peaceful and fervent prayer to bring about the end of abortion in our country. I personally witnessed the responsible actions taken by many to stand publicly in defense of human life by proclaiming the “Gospel of Life,” and I applaud their involvement.

The continuous efforts of the campaign will undoubtedly change minds and hearts and, God willing, bring about greater legal protection for life, from conception to natural death. With due deference to the judgment of our pastors, “40 Days for Life” is welcome to continue promoting its program within the Diocese of San Diego.

Sadly, there are many pressures in society that drive women and men to consider abortion. Each year, more than 250,000 abortions are performed in California, 25,000 which occur in San Diego County. As we approach 38 years of legalized abortion in the United States, prayer and fasting to support and promote the dignity and sanctity of human life, and to promote a culture of life, is vitally important.

I send my greetings and continue to encourage those participating in this effort, thereby imitating Christ who made prayer and fasting the basis for his mission “that all might have life and life in its fullness.”

Sincerely in our Lord,
Robert H. Brom
Bishop of San Diego

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