“For example, we have prayer warriors on the sidewalk along with our sidewalk counselors,” Colantino said. “Our very active 40 Days for Life program keeps getting better every year. We are doing civic activities as we have in the past, but we now have direct access to those seeking abortion.”

Thanks to the George family of Springfield, who gifted the building for Springfield Right to Life, the organization’s home base makes Thursdays a priority. That’s when Planned Parenthood performs surgical abortions. This past summer, Springfield Right to Life had interns who would try to offer women who were arriving at Planned Parenthood alternatives to abortion. The summer interns were funded through a grant from the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois.

“My faith gives me a strong foundation in why I am pro-life, and it also gives me something that I can constantly feed from as a means to renew my faith, gather inspiration and strength, and focus my vision in my role as director,” Colantino said.

Upcoming Events

Watch the movie Unplanned: Feb. 7 at 7 p.m. at Calvary Church (Hazel Dell Road location). If you are interested in seeing the movie, contact Springfield Right to Life at: springfieldrtl.org or call them: (217) 523-2700.

40 Days for Life: The 40 Days for Life campaign runs Feb. 26-April 5. Springfield Right to Life is inviting all parishes to get involved and have them pray in front of Planned Parenthood each day. Call their office to sign up.

Springfield Right to Life recently began a pilot program for moms with small children. This is a mom’s support group where the goal is to meet regularly, make a craft, talk about being a mom, and have on-site childcare. Call their office for more details.