“9 Days for Life” campaign begins Jan. 18

WASHINGTONOn Jan. 18, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops will launch the national “9 Days for Life” campaign calling people together for a 9-day “digital pilgrimage” focusing on cherishing the gift of human life from conception to natural death.

The campaign surrounds the annual Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children, which occurs on the anniversary of Roe v. Wade — the Supreme court decision that made abortion legal in the United States throughout pregnancy.

The overarching intention of the centerpiece novena is the end to abortion, and each day highlights a different intention related to respect for human life: end of life care, human trafficking, healing after abortion, the death penalty, and more. Participants are called to both prayer and action unified around each day’s specific intention and can subscribe to receive daily messages at www.9daysforlife.com. Leaders’ resources, including a press kit, are available at www.usccb.org/9-days-for-life-toolkit.

WHO:  The U.S. bishops are calling Catholics, parishes, schools, organizations, and all people of good will to participate in the nationwide “9 Days for Life” campaign. Through our unified prayer and action, we can help create a culture that cherishes the gift of every human life.

WHEN:  “9 Days for Life” will run from Jan. 18-26.

WHAT:  9daysforlife.com is the dedicated website for joining the novena and for accessing resources to share and go deeper into this “digital pilgrimage.” Participants can receive the novena by downloading the free “9 Days for Life” app, or by subscribing to daily emails or text messages. A printable version is also available online. Those who join the campaign are invited to:

  1. Pray with a multi-faceted novena that includes a new intention, brief reflection, bonus information, and suggested actions each day.
  2. Gather in prayer and fellowship with others. Suggestions are provided.
  3. Share a culture of life online! #OurPrayersMatter #9DaysforLife

WHERE:  For additional information and updates on ways to get involved, please visit 9daysforlife.com and follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

For more information about the USCCB, visit www.usccb.org and www.usccb.org/prolife. Follow the USCCB on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

USCCB/Judy Keane