RALEIGH - Bishop Michael Burbidge led a one-hour prayer vigil outside the Raleigh Women's Health Organization clinic Wednesday, kicking off 40 Days for Life, a national anti-abortion campaign.

About 40 adults and children gathered for the Ash Wednesday vigil, according to Burbidge and the clinic director. The ecumenical campaign, documented at www.40daysforlife.com, includes activities in 59 cities. The Web site says the campaign aims to end abortions through prayer and fasting, peaceful around-the-clock vigils and community outreach over 40 days.

The clinic, part of the National Women's Health Organization, provides a range of gynecological services, from routine checkups to contraception and abortions. Susan Hill, president of the national organization, which is based in Raleigh, said the clinic is accustomed to protesters and vigils, and it has a security staff. She said no patients had appointments Wednesday morning and the vigil was not disruptive. By late afternoon, only a couple of people remained, she said.

Burbidge of the Catholic Diocese of Raleigh said he may return to the clinic as the vigils continue through March 16.

"We were there to pray together, united as sisters and brothers, united in the cause for the protection and sacredness of human life," he said by phone Wednesday afternoon.