Catholic Pro-Life Committee

Overview

Convert-to-Life

As often as you did it for one of the least among you, you did it for Me.

– Matthew 25:40

The five abortion centers in Dallas, where an estimated 50 babies die each day, are places of unspeakable violence and sorrow. Christians are called to be present there, as Mary and the apostle John stood at Calvary. Like them, we must bravely face the suffering of the innocent.

The Convert-to-Life Ministry of the CPLC is present to women in two ways: prayer and sidewalk counseling. Sidewalk counselors, including those from the Summer Intern Program, are trained to lovingly offer alternatives to women and men coming to the centers, and referrals for post-abortion healing to those leaving. Over 30 counselors ensure an almost-daily presence at the centers. Since its beginning in 1997, the Convert-to-Life Ministry has helped more than 5,000 mothers choose life for their babies, and three abortion centers have closed.

Prayer events include the Roe Memorial Rosary outside the Routh Street abortion center (closest to the Cathedral), a quarterly Mass and Rosary Procession to an abortion center, participation in the fall 40 Days for Life campaign, and Eucharistic Adoration. Each parish is asked to pray and fast for the conversion of a particular abortion center, its staff, and all who come there. Team Leaders organize prayer support from individuals, who pray at the centers and elsewhere. For more information about the Convert-to-Life Ministry, please contact Ministry Director Joanne Underwood at junderwood@prolifedallas.org.

Every pro-life ministry is essential to convert the culture. Education, legislation, and supportive services – each has its place and is critical. But Convert-to-Life is truly the front lines of the battle for life, the most urgent opportunity we have to help a mother and save her child. Hear about these front-line, life-saving experiences in our sidewalk counselors' own words in their Stories from the Street. And experience the inspiration of this life-changing and life-saving ministry through the music and words of local musician Stephen Ward:

"I think God really inspired this song to encourage the sidewalk counselors and for all those praying and working in pro-life in any capacity -- they all need a big pat on the back as often as possible -- and so I am making this song a 'free' song to be used for pro-life groups to use." - Stephen Ward

Lyrics to "Advocate"

Ring out your church bells and hoist up your prayer nets of love
Won't you come out today?
And stand with the sidewalking saints
who are out here each day buying us time...

Set your alarm clocks, and wake up real early and come
Oh, please don't be late
'Cause I need someone just like you
who will speak for my life
before it's too late...

I need someone like you to be my advocate
I need someone like you to be my advocate
Be my advocate
My advocate

Well I could be an Einstein or maybe a Mozart
or even a doctor who cures a disease
I could be a fireman who climbs through the flames
to save someone from your family

But I won't get a chance unless you speak for me
No I won't get a chance unless you stand for me
No I won't get a chance unless you pray for me
No I won't get a chance unless you stay for me

And be my advocate
My advocate

Won't you arbitrate for me?
Won't you arbitrate for me? And speak for me?
Won't you arbitrate for me? Speak for me?
And be my advocate?
Be my advocate
My advocate

So ring out your church bells and hoist up your prayer nets of love
Won't you come out today?
And stand with the sidewalking saints
who are out here each day
They're buying us time...

Set your alarm clocks, wake up real early, but come
Oh, please don't be late

She's got an appointment at 8

- Music and lyrics by Stephen M. Ward, Dallas, TX

Convert-to-Life

Convert-to-Life

Abortions in the U.S.

Encouraging Words