Planned Parenthood does CharlestonA guest post by KATHY SCHMUGGE

Charleston, South Carolina, is vibrant and bustling with life. It is known for its southern hospitality, which includes good food and friendly people. But a new business is planning to add its name to the city's famous rows of pastel-colored buildings, and "life" is not the word for what it brings.

In April, a local reporter broke the story about Planned Parenthood Health Systems Inc.'s December 31 , 2007, purchase of 200 Rutledge Ave. for $1.25 million, verified by the Charleston County Auditor’s office records. PPHSINC’s annual report also shows a photo of the property with the caption, “”Our future Charleston, SC health center will begin providing medical care in 2008."
Plans for the center fit with Planned Parenthood's recent strategy of building high-volume abortion mills.

An ecumenical effort has begun linking people from all faiths who oppose Planned Parenthood and want to inform the public about their concerns with Planned Parenthood coming to Charleston. Since the grassroots coalition found out about Planned Parenthood’s purchase of the building on 200 Rutledge Ave., people have gathered at the site in peaceful protest and prayer on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. or various times during the week.

All people of life are encouraged to pray and try to gain support from neighboring businesses and politicians to provide a better alternative to women in crisis, such as Lowcountry Crisis Pregnancy Center, (843) 553-3505, and Birthright of Charleston, (843) 556-4403.

Consider writing South Carolina U.S. Sens. Jim DeMint and Lindsey Graham, Gov. Mark Sanford, and Charleston Mayor Joseph Riley of Charleston to voice your concerns. You can also contact South Carolina Citizens for Life for ways to make a difference.

RELATED: LifeNews and Jill Stanek are also on this story.

Kathy Schmugge is Family Life Coordinator of the Catholic Diocese of Charleston.