Despite the rain, the spirit of pro-life advocates remained undaunted in California last Saturday, as they gathered for the annual Walk for Life West Coast in San Francisco and OneLife LA in Los Angeles. Both events, broadcasted live by EWTN, attracted significant crowds in support of the sanctity of human life.

Marking its 20th year, the San Francisco event was predominantly organized and attended by Catholics, including Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone. The event commenced with a pro-life Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral, followed by a "Silent No More" campaign featuring individuals affected by abortion, a rally with notable speakers like Lila Rose of Live Action, and a 1.8-mile walk. Cordileone, in his homily, expressed concern about California's abortion rates and emphasized the need for comprehensive support for women facing crisis pregnancies.

The archbishop asserted that the key to advancing the pro-life cause and revitalizing society lies in restoring the Christian belief in marriage and family. Cordileone argued that a healthy marriage culture is essential for addressing social issues such as poverty, homelessness, and violence. He encouraged young people to actively contribute to the solution by embracing the values of marriage before having children.

Despite the challenging weather, participants in San Francisco, including young adults from various parishes and organizations, demonstrated a strong commitment to the cause. The event, which has grown substantially since its inception in 2004, continues to draw support from individuals who have had a change of heart regarding the pro-life movement.

In Los Angeles, OneLife LA kicked off at La Placita/Olvera Street and culminated in a celebration at Los Angeles State Historic Park. Archbishop José Gomez led a requiem Mass at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels to honor the unborn. Gomez highlighted the significance of OneLife LA as a vision for a culture of life, emphasizing the sacredness of every human life from conception to natural end.

Participants at OneLife LA, despite the rain, viewed their involvement as a pilgrimage and a testament to their belief in God's plan for love, marriage, and family. The event, which began modestly and has grown over the years, serves as a powerful witness to life and encourages respect for life at every stage.

In conclusion, the 2024 Walk for Life West Coast and OneLife LA events stood as powerful demonstrations of unwavering support for the sanctity of human life, with participants braving the elements to advocate for a culture that values life from conception to its natural end.