For the last five years, I’ve had the opportunity to make a long weekend out of the March for Life in Washington, DC. Yes, it is still happening despite the Dobbs v Jackson decision in June 2022.
The event will happen on Friday, January 20th. This will be the first one following last summer’s landmark decision that sent the abortion issue back to the states. Yet, we continue to march for equal protection of every unborn child created in the image and likeness of God.
Unlike the ones from the past, the route has changed. Instead of ending at the Supreme Court, the rally will end at the Capitol Building, adjacent to the high court. (No breaching).
In my experience, if making a long weekend out of it here are things to do during the long weekend. Here are a few events and possible things to do while in town.
March for Life Expo
The March for Life Expo has a myriad of different pro-life ministries and businesses that showcase the works that they do. The Expo happens the day before, the morning of the March, and for two hours following the March. Learn more here.
Vigil for Life
The National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception will have a vigil Mass for Life on January 19th starting at 5:00 PM. If attending in person, plan to arrive early as it will be crowded. Bishop Michael Burbridge of Arlington, VA, and chair of pro-life activities for USCCB, will be the principal celebrant.
After the opening Mass, there will be a Holy Hour for Life. Then, every hour, on the hour, is holy hours from different dioceses until 8 AM the next morning in the lower church.
Bishop Joe Coffey, auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of Military Services, will be the main homilist and celebrant for the closing Mass at 8 AM the next morning. Fun fact: when serving as a naval chaplain in San Diego, he took marines and sailors to pray outside of an abortion facility in San Diego that is near Camp Pendelton.
After Mass, the hundreds of thousands of faithful will descend on the National Mall for the rally and peaceful march to the Capitol building. Jonathan Roumie, Tony Dungy, Mississippi AG Lynn Fitch, and a list of others will address those gathered.
Have a shopping list? Check out their two-tier gift shops. One section has saint and Marian statues, rosaries, coffee mugs, and more. The other section has books, movies, and music. Shop til you Drop.
Conferences
Two conferences will take place simultaneously the next day. One from Students for Life and another at Georgetown.
Students for Life of America will have their annual summit with 2000 high school, college, and pro-life leaders coming together to network and hear from speakers like Kristan Hawkins, Seth Dillon, Allie Beth Stuckey, Trent Horn, and many more. To sign up with limited space left, visit here.
Cardinal O’Connor Conference at Georgetown University is the other conference taking place. Panelists are made up of diverse pro-life voices that include the issues of abortion, the death penalty, euthanasia, war, and others. Sign up here.
Rehumanize Karaoke Party
A fun way to unwind after a long day of marching is a karaoke party. Rehumanize International will host a karaoke event on the night of the March for Life. One doesn’t have to sing or carry a million-dollar tune, but it is a great way to meet fellow pro-lifers and enjoy oneself. To sign up for the event, visit here.
Regardless, be safe, have fun, and continue to defend life.