Starting and eventually returning to Federal Plaza, Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity recently joined approximately 6,000 pro-lifers march downtown Chicago. Pro Life Wisconsin organized the bus trips and brought people from across the state. Knights of Columbus chapters from Wausau, Merrill, Plum City, Pewaukee, Sparta, Denmark, Boscobel, Luxemburg, Bruce, Sister Bay, New London, Spooner, Colby, Rhinelander, Hilbert (just to name a few) contributed to the venture. It was real pilgrimage showing love for life, a journey with a moral and spiritual significance. Although this year’s temperatures were more pleasant, there was sacrifice and prayer involved along the way. The theme of this year’s Illinois march was ‘Unique from Day One.’
Jeanne Mancini, National President for March for Life and Radiance Foundation president Ryan Bomberger served as the event’s keynote speakers. The crowd also heard remarks from Archbishop of Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich, Chicago Bears co-owner Pat McCaskey, Reps. Darin LaHood and Dan Lipinski, as well as an Aid for Women client. The last speaker was a weDignify College Student Leader.
Musicians added much to the actual march. Participants kept the beat carrying a variety of signs.
The white veils of Novices Sister Cecilia Joy and Sister Concepcion helped keep our own Franciscan Sister group together. Postulant Yazmin and Sister Mary Frances Maher, Sister Elaine Turba, Sister Julie Ann Sheahan and Sister Louise Hembrecht represented our religious Community. Silver Lake College of the Holy Family students also were among the pilgrims.