As we begin 2026, the call to pray for and defend the dignity of every human life continues with renewed energy and opportunity. After several challenging years following the 2021 COVID-19 restrictions, the Office for Respect Life Ministries is once again organizing a pilgrimage to the NATIONAL MARCH FOR LIFE in Washington, D.C., offering about 60 youth and chaperones the chance to participate in this powerful witness for life. We will depart on Thursday, January 22, attend the 53rd annual National March for Life on Friday, January 23, have some discussions about the experience on Friday evening, attend the Students for Life Conference on Saturday, January 24, and return home late that evening.
NATIONAL PRAYER VIGIL FOR LIFE
For those who cannot attend in person, the National Prayer Vigil for Life and other related events  that offer opportunities for prayer and reflection are livestreamed from the Cathedral Basilica in Washington, DC on January 22. Check out the above webpage for information on that.
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LOCAL EVENTS IN JANUARY
If you are staying closer to home in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, here are some opportunities to participate locally in the culture-of-life movement:
PRO-LIFE ROSARY PROCESSIONAL AND RALLY
- Saturday, January 17, 2026 — The Cincinnati ProLife Committee is organizing another rosary procession from City Hall to Fountain Square in downtown Cincinnati beginning at 10AM.  This is a wonderful way for families and youth to engage in respectful, life-affirming community witness and prayer.
- Sunday, January 18, 2026 — Join Archbishop Casey for the annual Respect Life Mass at St. Peter in Chains Cathedral Basilica downtown. This will occur during the regular 10AM Mass, and will celebrate the gift of life and honor our local respect-life award recipient.  All are welcome.
CINCINNATI RIGHT TO LIFE MINI-MARCH FOR LIFE
- Saturday, January 31 — Join Cincinnati Right to Life for a peaceful, prayerful march from Holy Name Church to the local Planned Parenthood facility. This prayer walk draws hundreds of pro-life supporters and offers a powerful witness in our community. Mini March for Life 2026 – Cincinnati Right to Life
PRAYER RESOURCES AND THE 9 DAYS FOR LIFE NOVENA
Whether you travel to Washington or remain in your parish or home, prayer is central to building a culture of life.
9 DAYS FOR LIFE (JANUARY 16–24, 2026)
This annual novena for the protection of human life offers daily intentions, short reflections, and suggested actions to help Catholics pray and act for a culture of life. Sign-ups for daily reminders (by email or text) and printable resources are available through the Respect Life website linked above.
MARCH FOR LIFE TOOLKIT
Office for Respect Life Ministries created a March for Life Toolkit of YOUTH MINISTRY LESSON PLANS, PRO-LIFE MOVIE NIGHTS, and PRO-LIFE PRAYER SERVICES to empower parishes, schools, and respect life groups to join in the vigil from home, and those materials are still available to you, especially if you work with youth. So, whether in conjunction with your planned trip to Washington, DC or perhaps especially for those unable to attend, click on the links above and check them out.
A Final Prayerful Invitation
Regardless of where you are — in Washington, DC, at your parish, or at home — we invite you to join in prayer for all mothers, fathers, and families affected by the heartbreak of abortion, that they might find healing and forgiveness, and to work together in service of a genuine culture of life throughout our communities.