Annual Pro-Life Events

Every January, thousands of pilgrims travel to Washington to pray together for an increase in respect for the dignity of every human life at the National Prayer Vigil for Life. If you can't join us, consider holding your own vigil, or participating in your local diocesan or parish prayer events.

National Prayer Vigil for Life

The National Prayer Vigil for Life is a pro-life prayer vigil held on the eve of the March for Life each January since 1979. Thousands of pilgrims from across the nation pray for an end to abortion and a greater respect for all human life. It is held at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.

Click here for more information about the 2024 Vigil.

Related Events

Find out about some of the other events occurring in the Washington, D.C., area in the days surrounding the March for Life! A list of other pro-life events happening around the country can be found on the March for Life website.

Prayer Resources

9 Days for Life

(resources for leaders)

Join thousands of Catholics across the country in prayer and action during the bishops' pro-life novena, 9 Days for Life: Tuesday, January 16 - Wednesday, January 24, 2024. 

Download the novena or sign up to receive it by email or text message in English or Spanish!

January 22, Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children

(resources for leaders)

The General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM), no. 373, designates January 22 as a particular day of prayer and penance, called the "Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children": "In all the Dioceses of the United States of America, January 22 (or January 23, when January 22 falls on a Sunday) shall be observed as a particular day of prayer for the full restoration of the legal guarantee of the right to life and of penance for violations to the dignity of the human person committed through acts of abortion." (more information)