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The F Stops Here

Edith Manchester is this county's most visible pro-life activist, and her letters often appear in the Santa Cruz County Sentinel. She is co-founder of Voice for Life, an anti-abortion activist organization. Edith Manchester When the roll is called up yonder, Edith Manchester is pretty sure they'll be holding a spot for her. Both loved and reviled for her tireless crusade against abortion, Manchester believes she has been directed by the Holy Son for this particular form of social activism. Manchester is a by-the-book kind of gal when it comes to final details. "My guidelines are what's in the Bible because I have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ," says the co-founder of Voice for Life, Santa Cruz's pro-life organization. She plans on a Christian funeral and burial service. "I see cremation as a pagan practice," the fetus' friend says. "To intentionally destroy the body goes against the wishes of God." But it is the hereafter that the crusading Christian looks forward to. "When a Christian dies, it's a time of great rejoicing," Manchester notes. "Although we grieve because we miss the person, our focus should be on the joy they're experiencing being in the presence of God." The music already has been picked out--the hymns "Blessed Assurance" and "God Leads His Dear Children Along" will accompany Manchester to heaven. There is no doubt in Manchester's mind that heaven is where she will end up. And, unlike most, she has already had a little preview. "It was the most glorious atmosphere of total life, light and well being," she remembers. "It was such an ecstasy, you can't put it into words." Manchester sees the afterlife as a place to gather with all the loved ones that have gone before--and will follow later. Death holds no fear. "I'm ready for heaven because Jesus is very real to me as my savior and friend." Next photo [ Metro Santa Cruz | MetroActive Central | Archives ]