National Prayer Vigil for Life
National Prayer Vigil for Life
January 22-23, 2012
The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is pleased to host the 2012 National Prayer Vigil for Life January 22-23. Below, please find links to important information regarding the Vigil.
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Cardinals, Bishops, Priests, Deacons & Seminarians - Important Information & Instructions
Cardinals, Bishops and Priests are welcome to concelebrate the Opening Mass and Closing Mass of the National Prayer Vigil for Life. Deacons and Seminarians are also welcome to attend the Masses and participate in the procession. For important information and instructions, please click the link above.
GENERAL INFORMATION
The Annual National Prayer Vigil for Life, now in its 33rd year, is sponsored by the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Pro-Life Secretariat, and The Catholic University of America Office of Campus Ministry.
Over 20,000 pilgrims attend the annual Vigil, held the eve of the March for Life.
The 2012 National Prayer Vigil for Life begins January 22 at 6:30pm with the Solemn Opening Mass held in the Basilica’s Great Upper Church. Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, Chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Pro-Life Activities, will be the principal celebrant and homilist. Participation in this Mass fulfills the Sunday obligation.
Following the Opening Mass, the Vigil continues in the Basilica’s Crypt Church with the National Rosary for Life at 10pm, followed by Night Prayer at 11pm. Confession is available from 9:30am to 12 midnight in the Basilica’s Confessional Chapel (Our Lady of Hostyn).
The Vigil continues overnight in the Crypt Church beginning 12am on January 23 with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Holy Hours every hour on the hour through 6am, followed by Morning Prayer, Benediction and Reposition of the Blessed Sacrament at 6:30am.
The National Prayer Vigil for Life closes with the Solemn Mass for Life celebrated at 7:30am in the Basilica’s Great Upper Church.
No tickets are required for any of the National Prayer Vigil for Life events held at the Basilica. All are welcome to attend.
PARKING
Parking for buses and cars at the Vigil for Life Mass on Sunday, January 22, 2012, is available on a first come, first served basis in the Shrine's Lower Lot and on Harewood Road and 4th Street.
Bus parking for Monday, January 23, 2012 is available by permit only. At this time, there are no additional permits available.
