LIVE UPDATES: The March for Life 2023

 

Washington D.C., Jan 20, 2023 / 07:11 am (CNA).

The 50th anniversary of the March for Life kicks off today, Jan. 20, approximately seven months following the supreme court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, the 1973 case which legalized abortion across the nation.

Follow along here for live updates of the march, all times are in U.S. Eastern Standard Time:

Jan. 20, 10:10 a.m.

The crowd is slowing increasing by the March for Life rally stage, while people from pro-life organizations are walking around and handing out signs to marchers.

Jan. 20, 9:55 a.m.

Pilgrims don’t begin marching until 1:00 p.m., however crowds begin building much earlier than that. What is usually one of the coldest weeks in the year for the Washington D.C. area, the weather is about 49 degrees and comfortably sunny, but with some wind chills.

Jan. 20, 9:44 a.m.

Media begins to circulate online of groups en route and arriving at the March for Life.

Jan. 20, 9:20 a.m.

As pilgrims and visitors prepare to march on Washington D.C. in support of life, some have wondered why the March for Life still continues despite the overturning of Roe v. Wade.

Did you know that the March for Life has aspirations not only for pro-life laws but a pro-life culture? You can read more about that here, and 7 other interesting facts pro-lifers should know about this year’s March for Life.

Jan. 19, 5:00 p.m.

Thousands of pilgrims from across the nation gather at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington D.C. for the opening Mass in the National Prayer Vigil for Life. The main celebrant of the Mass was Bishop Michael Burbidge of the nearby Arlington Diocese.

Burbidge was recently elected to chair the U.S. Bishops Committee on Pro-Life Activities.

The basilica was filled with young people, including loads of high school and college students, many of whom have traveled to the basilica in preparation for the march.