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Approximately more than 2,500 people attended what has come to be known as the “North Carolina Mass for Life,” a liturgy held each year at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., on January 22. The day marks the anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision legalizing abortion.

The mid-morning Mass is celebrated by the Most Reverend Michael F. Burbidge of the Diocese of Raleigh and the Most Reverend Peter J. Jugis of the Diocese of Charlotte. It is attended by hundreds of parishioners from both diocese and hundreds of people who come to the shrine to pray before taking part in the annual March for Life in front of the Capitol and the Supreme Court. This year Bishop Jugis was the celebrant with Bishop Burbidge the homilist.

In his homily, Bishop Burbidge spoke of being “faithful citizens, courageous witnesses and firm believers renewed in our commitment to revere life, protect life, educate on behalf of life, find life and march for life.”

In his comments on the importance of revering life, the Bishop spoke directly to the students and young adults, commending them for their presence and their commitment to the cause of the sanctity of life. He urged them to continue their witness when they return to their campuses, schools and communities.

Bishop Burbidge noted that progress is being made as a result of prayers, action and witness, all through the grace of God. He pointed out that for the first time since 1973 surveys indicate general support for Roe v. Wade has fallen to less than fifty percent.

The Bishop spoke about the importance of exercising our responsibilities as believers and as citizens, especially in this election year, noting “the highest priority is to promote life and create a peaceful world.”

• Watch Bishop Burbidge's homily (Windows Media)
• View photo gallery of Mass and March for Life