Vigil for Life, solemn observance of Roe v. Wade set for Jan. 21 and Jan. 22

The Archdiocese of Indianapolis will offer two events in Indianapolis in solemn observance of the 1973 Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion.

The archdiocesan Secretariat of Pastoral Ministries will host a Vigil for Life on Jan. 21 at SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral, 1347 N. Meridian St., in Indianapolis.

The event is from 6:30-9 p.m., and includes a keynote address by Archbishop Joseph W. Tobin, the opportunity for the sacrament of reconciliation, exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, a eucharistic procession, pro-life witnesses, music by Matt Faley, and an opportunity to join others in praying that a culture of life may flourish in our country.

While this is a free event, participants are asked to consider bringing a donation to Birthline, an archdiocesan ministry that provides material support for pregnant women and mothers of infants in need. Of particular need are diapers in sizes newborn to 5, baby wash, diaper wipes and newborn to size 2T clean, gently used or new clothes.

For more information or to register for this event, log on to www.vigilforlife.eventbrite.com.

On Jan. 22, two Roe v. Wade observances within the archdiocese have been reported to The Criterion, one in Indianapolis and one in Terre Haute.

The annual archdiocesan local solemn observance of the Roe v. Wade decision will be held at SS. Peter and Paul Cathedral on Jan. 22. It will begin with a noon Mass celebrated by Archbishop Tobin, followed by a prayerful procession along Meridian and Pennsylvania streets.

There will be exposition of the Blessed Sacrament for those who wish to remain in the cathedral.

The observance will conclude with Benediction at 2:30 p.m. in the cathedral.

There will be very limited parking at the Archbishop Edward T. O’Meara Catholic Center and the cathedral. Additional paid parking may be available at Methodist Hospital Visitor Center Parking and other nearby paid public parking lots. Please plan to arrive early.

For more information, e-mail Rebecca Niemerg at rniemerg@archindy.org or call 317-236-1569.

The Roe v. Wade event in Terre Haute will involve a peaceful, prayerful, pro-life gathering. It will take place at 1 p.m. in front of the Vigo County Courthouse located at 3rd Street and Wabash. Signs will be provided. Parking may be available behind the Vigo County Court House.

For more information, call Tom McBroom at 812-841-0060. †