CCHS Teens for Life Participate in National ‘40 Days for Life’ Program During Lenten Season

WHEELING — Members of Wheeling Central’s Teens for Life group are taking part in a daily prayer service as part of the national “40 Days for Life” program – a coordinated prayer campaign taking place in 59 cities in 31 states across the country.

The 40 Days for Life program, which originated in Bryan/College Station, TX in 2004, was begun by a local pro-life group that prayed for an answer about how to reduce abortion in their area – the answer God gave them, they say, was “40 Days for Life.” In a matter of weeks, the program activated 1,000 people and led directly to a 28 percent decline in abortions in that Texas community.

The only participating organization in the Wheeling area, the CCHS Teens for Life students gather in the school chapel before their lunch period to read the daily Devotional provided on the 40 Days for Life website (www.40daysforlife.com). Although an optional activity, student attendance is strong for the daily gathering.

“I’m very happy to see the level of interest and enthusiasm among Central students for the 40 Days for Life Program,” said Jeff Smay, CCHS campus minister. “Our Teens for Life kids are personally committed to the Right for Life initiative and this program is an extension of their desire to make a difference through daily reflection and prayer.”

Smay said 38 students (grades 9-12) participate in the daily prayer program. The 40 Days for Life program will continue through March 16.

With a foundation dating back to the 19th century, a faith-based education stands as the hallmark of Wheeling Central Catholic High School. Located in the heart of The Friendly City, Wheeling Central is proud of its 420-member student body and their outstanding academic, athletic, and community service achievements. One of seven Catholic High Schools in West Virginia, Wheeling Central is where championship lives begin.