reflections, updates and homilies from Deacon Mike Talbot inspired by the following words from my ordination: Receive the Gospel of Christ whose herald you have become. Believe what you read, teach what you believe and practice what you teach...
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Want to bring young people to Christ? Catholic youth rallies, Masses and the Pro Life movement appeal to young people
Thousands of youth take part in the Archdiocese of Washington's Youth Rally and Mass for Life before the March for Life on January 22, 2015. Pete Baklinski / LifeSiteNews
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Approximately 15,000 young Roman Catholics packed the Verizon Center in downtown Washington, DC, for the annual Youth Rally and Mass for Life in advance of the 42nd annual March for Life to end abortion.
Cardinal Donald Wuerl of Washington presided over the Mass, alongside bishops from around the nation including Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York. The American bishops were joined by the papal nuncio to the United States, Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, who brought a special message from Pope Francis to the young pro-lifers.
As thousands of teens filed into the arena, they were welcomed by a rock band, and many of them took to social media to post their appreciation for the music. Archbishop Vigano, papal nuncio to the United States, reads a message from Pope Francis. Pete Baklinski / LifeSiteNewsWashington's Cardinal Donald Wuerl processes in for Mass. Pete Baklinski / LifeSiteNewsNew York's Cardinal Timothy Dolan processes in for Mass. Pete Baklinski / LifeSiteNews“Just did some crazy dancing,” attendee Ben Sweedyk wrote on Twitter.
“I stand for life! Crazy dance central!!!” wrote another, Maleah Smith.
Once the stadium was packed, Cardinal Wuerl took to the stage to welcome the crowd and introduce the many bishops in attendance at the Mass. The teens gave the bishops a rock star’s welcome, letting loose with cheers and thunderous applause as each was called by name.
After the introductions were made, Abp. Viganò went to the podium and read a special message from Pope Francis to the young marchers. He received a standing ovation from the crowd. Pope Francis said he was “pleased” to be present in spirit with the young people standing up for life.
Finally, five teens led thousands of their peers in the Rosary with the intention of ending abortion. One attendee said the power of the teens’ prayers was palpable, and called it “awesome.”
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