Catholics gather in Washington for annual March for Life

(Vatican Radio) Thousands of mostly young Catholics will be taking part in Friday’s March for Life in Washington D.C.

The March is preceded each year by a prayer Vigil organized by Bishops of the United States, which takes place in the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. On Friday morning, Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond of New Orleans will be the primary celebrant at the Closing Mass for the Vigil. 

This year’s March is the focus of renewed attention, in part because of the expected presence of newly-elected US Vice-President Mike Pence. Pence will become the highest ranking serving American politician to take part in the event.

The annual March is routinely the largest peaceful protest held each year in the United States.