SIOUX CITY -- "As we are about to reach Day 20 of our Siouxland 40 days of prayer, fasting, vigil and outreach, we encourage those defenders of life to join us from 2-4 pm,Sunday near Planned Parenthood in Sioux City," said Corinne Ruskey, campaign co-chair.

"It will be a celebration of life for Siouxland families," said Mary Stevens, co-chair. "We will have music, refreshments, balloons, and coloring books for children." She said the rally is held to encourage and support all who are praying, fasting and interested in pro-life work.

Stormy Poss, prayer chair for the Siouxland 40 Days, said every hour of the campaign during the first 20 days has been, or will be, covered. She said that of the first 480 hours there have been, or will be, 680 prayer participants covering the campaign around the clock. "The weather is not a hindrance -- we have committed people of faith praying to end abortion," she said.

Ruskey encouraged those planning to attend to bring like-new clothing for the Alpha Center and Birthright, small stuffed animals and 4-ounce canning jars to hold candles and beads. The latter will help the Cherish House -- a crisis pregnancy center.

Siouxland is one of more than 200 cities conducting simultaneous 40 Days for Life campaigns from Sept. 23 through Nov. 1.