An estimated 15,000 people came out to advocate for the most vulnerable in our society, calling for a greater respect for the life and dignity of every human person.
The day started with a prayer from Archbishop Jose Gomez greeting the crowd. The Knights of Columbus and bishops from Southern California then led the way, beginning the walk from downtown La Placita Olvera to Grand Park.
They walked with great enthusiasm, carrying signs such as “Peace begins in the Womb,” and “Abortion hurts Women.”
“This is the first time we see a Walk for Life of this caliber in Southern California,” said Bishop Barnes. “ It is nice to see the number of people gathering at this rally, living their faith and concern about the most vulnerable in our society. I pray that they continue to live this event in their daily lives.”
OneLife LA is inspired by Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta’s famous words, “Be somebody to somebody.” We do not live in a vacuum and as God’s children, we share a responsibility to take care of each other. Raymond Nolte, theology teacher at Damien Catholic High School in La Verne brought 35 students to walk with him.
“It’s imperative to stand up for what’s important in life,” he said. “These young men are taking their faith into action which in turn will help them become men for others.”
Deacon Steve Serembe, pastoral coordinator of St. Anthony Parish in Upland organized a group of 40 people to take the Metrolink to Los Angeles for the event. For him this walk represented a wider vision, an introduction to a greater community, the Universal Church.
“Unless you experience it, you can’t witness the depth of our faith. We live what we believe,” he said.
At the end of the walk, everyone gathered at Grand Park where the stage was set for presenters and much entertainment. Eduardo Verastegui, actor of the movie “Bella” and founder of Manto de Guadalupe pregnancy clinic in Los Angeles, talked about the importance of helping women in a difficult pregnancy while Emmy-award winning actress Patricia Heaton spoke about standing up for life.
The event concluded with men, women and children visiting food trucks and exhibits from community organizations and enjoying a family picnic after a day well done. January 17 marked a day of great hope, where thousands of people, believing in a promised land for all, walked in solidarity with each other.
Mary Huber is the Associate Director of Pro Life Catholic Ministries for the Diocese of San Bernardino.