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Peter Baklinski : Apr 3, 2013  LifeSiteNews.com

"I thought it was the right thing to do, and my conscience was telling me to do it." –James Vignola

(Jefferson City, Missouri)—A pro-life judge once said: "Once or twice in a century an issue arises... so far-reaching in its consequences, and so deep in its foundations, that it calls every person to take a stand." High school freshman James Vignola, 15, decided to make such a stand two weeks ago. (Photo: LifeSiteNews.com)

James was having a good track season at Helias Catholic High School in Jefferson City, Missouri. But then LIFE Runners, a pro-life ministry for praying, running, and raising money for pregnancy help centers, came looking for runners for its pro-life relay across Missouri. The pro-life runners have been seen around the country wearing a blue shirt with the message "REMEMBER The Unborn".

James knew that his hour had come. But there was one catch. Under the rules of the Missouri High School Activities Association (MSHSAA), which his school belongs to, James had to make sure not to run in any non-school events so as to maintain his eligibility for track events. (Photo: LifeSiteNews.com)

Despite the fact that the LIFE Runners relay is not competitive—no timer, medals, or placement of runners—James was told at a track meeting that participating in the relay would disqualify him from school athletics for the year. But running to support the unborn was more important to the young man with strong pro-life convictions than a whole year of sports at his school.

"I thought it was the right thing to do, and my conscience was telling me to do it," he told News Tribune.

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