Life Chain Lines Downtown Streets

Elaine Landry, Father Paul Beutell, Laura Wilbon during last week’s event.

Sunday afternoon brought the 21st annual “Life Chain” event to the corners of Williamson Road and Orange Avenue in downtown Roanoke.

Life Chain is a peaceful and prayerful pro-life sign waving event organized by local volunteers.  It allows the participants to take a stand and according to one attendee, “show the Roanoke Valley that the lives of pre-born babies are not forgotten.”

About 100 people, including small children, stood on all four corners and waved at those who honked their horns.  Al Bedrosian, one of the organizers, estimated that 90% of those driving by had a positive reaction to the event.

In conjunction with this event, volunteers are also planning to stand in front of Planned Parenthood for the next 40 days where they can speak with people before they go inside to inquire about an abortion.  Father Paul Beutell of St. Thomas of Canterbury Church said he believes that “of the 100 people that come to Planned Parenthood, at least one will walk away with our literature and offer of help.”

Elaine Landry said she was at the Life Chain event to “raise awareness of the support system we can offer, whether they keep the baby or give it up for adoption.  These women are scared and we want to offer support, no matter their decision.”

Laura Wilbon of Buchanan came to make people aware of the Blue Ridge Women’s Center.  She said, “we stand by them and offer support no matter what decision they make.  A lot of women suffer psychologically on the anniversary of their abortion and that is a horrible burden that victimizes them.  We can help.”

A recent Wall Street Journal poll showed that 72% of Southwest Virginians are pro-life, no matter their political affiliation.

Susan Edwards of Catawba said she was there to protect “God’s rich gift recognized by our Constitution, the gift of Life” and to promote adoption.  In fact, almost all the signs waving were promoting adoption, love or forgiveness.

By Carla Bream
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