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Before participating in the March for Life in Washington, Shannon Allen joined thousands of teens at a pro-life rally. The event featured music, speakers, and a Eucharistic procession, leaving Allen with a strong sense of community. "The biggest thing for me was just being with so many Catholics my age," she said.
Pro-life organizers aim to enhance this feeling of unity by merging two pre-march youth events. On November 14, it was announced that the Diocese of Arlington and hosts of Life is VERY Good since 2009 would join forces with the Knights of Columbus and the Sisters of Life, co-hosts of Life Fest since 2022. This collaboration will create a single large rally called Life Fest before the 2025 March for Life on January 24.
"This event will inspire a new generation and help them see that life at all stages is precious," stated Supreme Knight Patrick Kelly. "Love is the answer; it transforms lives and changes hearts and minds."
Life Fest will take place over two days at EagleBank Arena on George Mason University's campus in Fairfax, Virginia. The arena has previously hosted Life is VERY Good, while past Life Fests occurred at the DC Armory in Washington.
The event begins with an evening session featuring praise music, speakers, and Eucharistic adoration before transitioning to a morning rally and Mass ahead of the March for Life. Attendees can participate in confession and venerate relics from St. John Paul II, Blessed Carlo Acutis, the recently beatified Ulma family, and Blessed Michael McGivney.
Organizers anticipate around 8,400 participants each day with tickets priced at $20 for both days. Bishop Michael F. Burbidge expressed enthusiasm about hosting national groups: "We are especially excited that this year we will be working alongside the Sisters of Life and the Knights of Columbus through this single ministry experience."
Sister Marie Veritas emphasized that every human being's dignity is affirmed by attending: "Every woman who has experienced one or more abortions needs to know that Jesus sees her...longs to forgive and heal her."
Kevin Bohli noted challenges during recent years due to COVID-19 restrictions but expects attendance growth following increased interest post-Roe v Wade reversal: “I think our numbers are going to increase because some groups realize there’s something very good for young people about making this trip.”
Combining rallies aims toward stronger impact according to Sister Marie Veritas: “Together we can witness more powerfully...Life is possible! Love is possible!”
Past attendees like Michael Albrigo encourage participation: “It’s important…dedicate time…to things which we know…and believe…”
Additional Catholic pre-March activities include National Prayer Vigil held annually at Basilica Immaculate Conception offering Masses & adorations leading up march itself
