The sidewalks outside abortion facilities serve as a platform for the work of Sidewalk Advocates for Life, who aim to reach out to women considering abortion. The task can be challenging, but advocates believe they are supported by divine grace.

Sidewalk advocates engage in prayer during their visits, though the results are not always immediately visible. They experience periods without success but find encouragement when their efforts bear fruit. On June 13, during the Feast of St. Anthony in the Octave of Pentecost, several significant events occurred that demonstrated what they perceive as the power of the Holy Spirit.

On this day, Melissa Yeomans from the National Sidewalk Advocate team joined local advocates at an abortion facility where tensions were high due to protests and counteractions by Planned Parenthood escorts. Amidst this chaos, Yeomans focused on a man distressed about his situation.

The man and his girlfriend faced financial difficulties with three small children already in their care. Although he wanted to keep their baby, his girlfriend was distressed about their circumstances. Through gentle communication facilitated by a translator, Yeomans and her team offered support and assistance.

A conversation later unfolded between one advocate and the man at a nearby park bench. They prayed together for his family and discussed potential options like abortion pill reversal. Despite not meeting again after this encounter, there was satisfaction in having provided guidance.

Advocates spend hours on these sidewalks hoping to expand coverage with more volunteers. Those interested in becoming trained advocates can contact Taylor Wegerer at 316-677-0327 for more information on training sessions or volunteering opportunities.

Colleen Ostermann is actively involved as a sidewalk advocate each week.