While Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022, its anniversary on January 22 remains a day Catholics in the United States will remember and pray for an end to abortion.
The US Bishops (USCCB) have chosen to retain the annual liturgical memorial entitled the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children. This day typically includes prayer and fasting, as well as Masses said for the intention of protecting unborn human life.
The liturgical aspect of this day is observed on January 22, or if it falls on a Sunday, the next available day.
Additionally, the USCCB has also maintained its sponsorship of the Nationwide Prayer Vigil for Life held at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.
Kat Talalas, assistant director of pro-life communications at the USCCB, explained why the USCCB has chosen to keep this prayer vigil even after Roe v. Wade was overturned.
The National Prayer Vigil is a time to praise God for the great gift of the recent Supreme Court Dobbs decision, overturning the tragic Roe v. Wade decision made almost a half-century ago. State and federal legislators are now free to embrace policies that protect preborn children and their mothers.
Yet, there is still a great need for prayer and advocacy from the faithful, as there will be intensified efforts to codify Roe in legislation and policies at the state and federal levels. Many prayers and sacrifices are needed to transform our culture so that all may cherish the gift of human life and offer life-giving support to vulnerable women, children, and families
The reversal of Roe v. Wade did not abolish abortion in America, and the fight for unborn human life will continue for many years.
January 22 will remain a day of prayer and fasting for the end to abortion until the day comes when abortion is no longer accepted as normal in the United States.
