Vigils, legal action continue after Planned Parenthood clinic opens

Published: 2007-10-05

AURORA, Ill. (CNS) -- Although a Planned Parenthood clinic in Aurora opened its doors Oct. 2, pro-life advocates pledged to continue their efforts to close the medical facility that will include abortion as part of its services. In an Oct. 1 statement to the media, Aurora Mayor Tom Weisner said the Kane County state's attorney's office found that the city had "no legal basis" to deny an occupancy permit for the clinic. Since Aug. 9, opponents had held vigils outside the proposed clinic, which was originally scheduled to open Sept. 18. Meanwhile, Catholics from across the diocese and beyond have indicated that they will maintain a prayerful vigil outside the clinic. "Of course we are totally disappointed in the decision that was made," said Fran Fortier, director of the Life Office for the Diocese of Joliet. "However our parish coordinators and pro-life committees in the diocese will continue to pray, educate, effect pro-life legislation, nurse the sick, handicapped, elderly and dying, from conception to natural death." Pro-life advocates, including representatives from the Pro-Life Action League, said they would continue their battle in court.

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