When I tell people I was in DC with a group of teenagers for the March for Life, I feel like I’m understating the experience drastically. The March serves and important purpose – it’s the public display of our cries for the beauty, importance, and love of life.

Experientially, however, especially for the young people, the Mass for Life that was held at the Verizon Center (overflowing to Constitution Hall because our young people are so convicted and steadfast) is where it’s at. It readies our young people, reinforcing their love and invigorating their spirits. Celebrating Mass with 24,000 young people, priests, seminarians, and religious brothers and sisters (especially dancing ones) is highly recommended. The truth about Mass, however, is that experience is only part of it. As the source and summit of our faith (the profundity of that teaching is boundless, but that’s another discussion altogether), it is an act of worship, an act of unity, an gift that re-presents Christ’s Sacrifice. In the sacrifice of the Mass, we see the ultimate mercy and forgiveness of our God. In the unity of the Mass, we’re able to join the entire world in praying. On Monday, the Universal Church prayed for children not given a chance at life, mothers who have chosen abortion, fathers, friends, doctors, caregivers and family who have assisted in these choices, mothers and fathers who will have choices to make, lawmakers, judges, and people of the world.

I’m pretty sure the world is aware of our position. What we need now is a change of heart. The culture of life is starting to spread, and our young people play a large part in that pattern. I pray that it continues. I also pray for our Catholic lawmakers who continue to legislatively vote against life. Pray with me. People inherently know right from wrong. Right choices are made as our hearts become aligned with God’s. Prayer will get us there. Love will get us there.