The 53rd March for Life was held in Washington, DC on Friday, January 23rd, 2026. The March for Life is an annual event held on the National Mall protesting the tragic loss of millions of lives of unborn children since the abortion was legalized in the United States of America on January 22nd, 1973. The event always takes place on a Friday closest to January 22nd.

Through the years, March for Life has grown into a major event in America. Some sources claim that around 100 000 people take part in the event. In the last few years, the vast majority of attendees are markedly young people. The past speakers at the gathering include Presidents and Vice Presidents of the United States, Members of Congress, distinguished religious leaders, and celebrities.

This year, His Grace Bishop Irinej of Washington – New York and Eastern America has been chosen to lead the delegation of Hierarchs of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the United States of America at the March. He also received the distinction to be the religious leader who will open the rally with an address and a prayer. In a very poignant and inspiring prayer, His Grace offered a heartfelt supplication for the preservation of the sanctity of life, and that the most innocent and helpless babies in mother’s womb be protected. The full transcription of the prayer is included below.

Many thousands of people enthusiastically welcomed His Grace’s address and prayer. Members of the U.S. Congress, religious leaders, and invited guests personally thanked our Bishop for his most moving words.

Following His Grace’s address, the Vice President of the United States of America, J.D. Vance, took the stage and addressed the gathering with a very meaningful and inspirational speech. It was received with great enthusiasm by everyone.

Serbs gathered in the Nation’s Capital were very proud to have such a powerful representation in Bishop Irinej and to have our Serbian Orthodox Church honored in such a meaningful way at such a noble event as is the March for Life. We look forward to many more meaningful activities in the future, in support and affirmation of our Serbian Orthodox Church and our Serbian people. More HERE.

Source: easterndiocese.org