On Saturday, June 24th, hundreds of people marched through Center City Philadelphia to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the Supreme Court's decision overturning Roe v. Wade. Pro-Life Union's Philadelphia's March for Life brought together individuals from all walks of life to pray for a culture of life and an end to abortion forever, to learn of the state of abortion in PA, and to obtain our call to action for the near future.
The day started with a mass at the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, before participants marched by the Philadelphia Women's Center where more than 6,500 abortions are performed every year. At the Independence Mall Visitor Center, speakers addressed the rally for life, including Mark Houck, Founder of The King's Men, Marlene Downing, PA Deputy State Director of Susan B Anthony Prolife America, Serena Dykson, Author and Founder of She Found His Grace Abortion Recovery, and Kathleen Carpenter, past president of Temple Students for Life. Music was provided by Gus deSimone and his band. It was great to see a diverse range of people, from mothers with babies, families to clergy and students, all united in their passion for life -- from throughout the Delaware Valley.
The event was a powerful testament to the dedication and support of the pro-life movement in the Greater Philadelphia as well as to the strength and courage of mothers who choose life for themselves and their babies, even in difficult circumstances. By working together, we can make a real difference in the lives of those around us and create a culture that celebrates life at all stages.
In addition to marching for an end to abortion, participants also donated items for pregnant moms and babies, including diapers, wipes, clothing, formula, and baby strollers. The donations will be distributed at what will be Philadelphia’s Largest Baby Shower Ever in early September by Catholic Social Services and the Pro-Life Union where we expect 500 moms to attend!
If you weren't able to join us in person, there is still a chance to help! Visit Philly's Biggest Baby Shower Amazon Wish List to purchase a gift that will be distributed to moms and babies in need in September.
Thank you to our sponsors the PA Family Institute and PA Pro-Life Coalition, and to our planning team Liana Hollendonner, Tyler Moser, Lizzie McNulty, Pat Stanton, particularly Ashley Garecht (who stepped in to oversee so many details), and the Pro-Life Union staff.
Many thanks to Purring Photography for capturing all the special moments of the day.
The March
The Mass & Prayer Service