By Karen Barry Schwarz, Special to the Florida Catholic
Dozens of pro-life advocates gathered on Sept.26, 2025, in the shadow of Sarasota’s abortion behemoth, Planned Parenthood, for a kick-off event for the Diocese of Venice Fall 40 Days for Life campaign.
The event, which took place in the parking lot of Community Pregnancy Clinics (CPCI), began and closed with prayers for the unborn, and respect for the dignity of all human persons. Many walked in silence around the block during the meeting, passing in front of the abortion facility carrying pro-life signs offering alternatives, and hope, for both mother and child.
Shaun Guevarra, CPCI Mission Advancement Officer, characterized the sharp juxtaposition of the two settings as “David and Goliath,” adding that “we all know how that story ends . . . David didn’t win with size. He won with faith. And we’re not afraid of the giant, because we know who fights with us!”
Tavia Ames, Director of Respect Life for the Diocese of Venice, thanked and encouraged those present. “By volunteering for a shift during this 40-day campaign, you are positively impacting our community. It can be hot, rainy, people may not always be nice but think about Jesus on the cross and how he suffered to help us,” Ames said. “Our peaceful presence, prayers and words can impact an entire family, and its future generations. The most important qualification as a sidewalk counselor or prayer supporter is to simply be there! Lives have been saved just by our presence outside an abortion center praying or holding signs.”
Guevarra thanked the Diocese of Venice and Bishop Frank J. Dewane for his support of 40 Days for Life over the years. Ames added that the Bishop’s permission to have the Blessed Sacrament available for Adoration inside Mary’s House, a building adjacent to the CPCI clinic, was powerful, and a factor in changing minds and saving lives.
As the event was wrapping up, a longtime “sidewalk warrior” named Margaret spontaneously stood, inspired to share her years of experience with the group. Describing several impactful encounters from throughout the years, she advised “Do not be afraid!” adding “I’m 80 years old, and I’m still out here.”
40 days for Life is an international 40-day campaign that aims to end abortion locally through prayer and fasting, community outreach, and a peaceful all-day vigil in front of abortion businesses. Join this worldwide prayer campaign to end abortion in the Diocese of Venice, now through Nov. 2, not only in Sarasota, but also in Fort Myers and Naples.
To learn more about how to participate in 40 Days for Life in the Diocese of Venice, contact Tavia Ames at 941-441-1101, ames@dioceseofvenice.org, or visit the Diocese’s Respect Life website at https://dioceseofvenice.org/offices/offices-departments/respect-life/40-days-for-life-2/.
