By Heather Tomlinson
London, England, Mar 22, 2025 / 06:00 am
During this Lent season, vigils outside abortion clinics in the United Kingdom have persisted despite government efforts to halt their activities of prayer for the unborn and assistance to women facing crisis pregnancies.
Throughout the 40 Days for Life campaign, a total of 11 vigils in 10 cities across the UK are ongoing this year, similar to the annual numbers seen since the first vigil in 2009. These vigils span from Glasgow in Scotland to Bournemouth on the southern coast of England.
Volunteers for the campaign have agreed to remain outside the newly established 150-meter buffer zones around all abortion facilities in the UK. It has been illegal to influence individuals within these zones since October 31, 2024, leading to arrests and prosecutions of pro-life activists.
Despite challenges, some volunteers have shown increased determination in the face of adversity. “The more resistance we encounter, the more committed I am to my pro-life work,” stated Sarah Bignell, leader of the 40 Days for Life campaign in Ealing, West London.
As the vigils continue, retired scientist Livia Tossici-Bolt awaits a verdict from Poole Magistrates Court for allegedly breaching a buffer zone in Bournemouth. She stood quietly with a sign that read “Here to talk, if you want,” sparking conversations that led to a fine and subsequent court case.
These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges faced by pro-life activists in the UK, with individuals like Adam Smith-Connor also facing legal consequences for their silent prayers at abortion clinics.
The Fight for Life: Pro-Life Activists Defy Restrictions in Europe
During the Munich Security Conference in February, Vice President JD Vance highlighted the alarming restrictions on freedom in Europe, shedding light on the ongoing battle for life in the region.
Isabel Vaughan-Spruce, a dedicated pro-life activist in the U.K., has faced legal repercussions for her silent vigil outside abortion clinics. Despite being arrested twice for standing in a “buffer zone,” she continues to lead the 40 Days for Life campaign in Birmingham, where she remains outside the restricted area.
Despite the challenges, Vaughan-Spruce remains steadfast in her mission. She shared, “We haven’t had any reaction from the authorities and have had a smooth start to the campaign here in Birmingham. Our kickoff event was a success, with a strong turnout and support from local priests, seminarians, and volunteers of different denominations.”
Women in need are responding to the signs offering help, with volunteers witnessing impactful moments where cars drive up to the clinic only to turn away after encountering the pro-life presence.
While facing dwindling volunteer numbers in Ealing due to COVID and misconceptions about the legality of their actions, pro-life advocates like Clare McCullough of the Good Counsel Network continue to provide support and hope to women in crisis. McCullough emphasized, “God works in mysterious ways during 40 Days for Life, and we continue to witness women choosing life despite the challenges.”
Despite the obstacles, the dedication of pro-life activists in Europe remains unwavering. Their unwavering commitment to life and compassion for those in need is a testament to the enduring fight for the protection of the most vulnerable.
