Metro Detroit and Michigan Life Chain locations began shortly after the first Life Chain that took place in Yuba City, Caliornia.
Since that time it has grown to include 1900 locations throughout the United States and Canada. In Michigan last year there were 104 locations with 43 of them in Metro Detroit, most of which have already been confirmed as renewed for the first Sunday of October, which is October 2nd this year.
The Life Chain is a quiet, peaceful, prayerful witness along major roadways. People young and older hold signs witnessing to the value of each human life from conception to natural death. Participants pray for the protection of the unborn as they hold the sign “Abortion Kills Children.” That sign has saved hundreds of babies over the years. Mothers have come forward years later to thank participants and introduce the child she had planned to abort. The simple, straight forward message changes minds and hearts and has saved many children.
Other signs witness to the loving concern of the Life Chain participants:
- Abortion hurts Women
- Pray for an end to Abortion
- Adoption: the loving option
- El Aborto Mata Ninos
- Life: the First Inalienable Right
- Pregnant? Need Help? 800-57-WOMAN
As the end of life is more often threatened, another sign can be seen in the Life Chain: “Assisted Suicide Kills.”
Life Chains are organized entirely by volunteers. The National Director Royce Dunn, the webmasters and state directors are unpaid. Many of the local coordinators are dedicated individuals or churches. Others are organized by affiliates of Right to Life of Michigan. The Right to Life Lifespan committee organizes 42 Life Chains in southeast Michigan. Any donations above and beyond the cost of signs are directed to local Pregnancy Centers who assist mothers and their babies.
Families and individuals interested in participating in this year’s Life Chain can find a location near them at www.lifechain.net. There is also information about starting a new Life Chain. New Life Chains this year include Woodhaven and Flint. The Flint Life Chain and a few others are organized in conjunction with 40 Days for Life, another group committed to protecting unborn children through witness and prayer.
Following the Life Chain, from 3:30 to 5:00 pm, there will be an Open House at the Right to Life of Michigan Wayne County Resource Center at 2010 Eureka Road, Wyandotte. Call 734-282-6100 for further information.
Downriver Activism & Empathy 