Faithful from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia are set to participate in the 2025 March for Life in Washington, D.C. on January 24. This annual event promotes respect and dignity for all human life from conception to natural death.

The march coincides with the 52nd anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court's decisions in Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton, which legalized abortion nationwide in 1973.

The Philadelphia delegation will include representatives from Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary as well as various parishes and schools within the archdiocese.

Activities will commence with an opening Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, where Most Reverend Efren V. Esmilla, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, will serve as principal celebrant and homilist.

Following the Mass, participants will gather at 7th Street near the Smithsonian Institution before marching along Constitution Avenue to the Supreme Court building around 1:00 p.m.

"The Catholic Church’s strong commitment to protecting and preserving human life is a holistic one," stated a spokesperson for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. The archdiocese is noted as one of the largest private providers of social services in its region, offering care regardless of faith tradition.

For more information about this year's March for Life or programs by Catholic Social Services of Philadelphia, interested parties can visit their respective websites.

It is important to note that bus permits will not be issued by The Basilica for pilgrimage groups attending this year’s event. However, accommodations are expected for all pilgrims arriving via bus at designated parking lots. Groups traveling by bus or van should notify Dr. Drain, director of the Office for Life and Family, about their attendance plans.