RALEIGH, N.C. — Hundreds of Catholics from across North Carolina gathered for the Diocese of Raleigh's Annual Respect Life Mass and Summit, held during Respect Life Month for the second consecutive year.
Celebrated on a Friday for the first time, the diocesan Mass was moved from January to October to encourage parishes to begin planning local observances for Jan. 22 and participation in national pro-life events, including the National Prayer Vigil for Life, Life Fest and the National March for Life in Washington, D.C.
The event drew high school and college students, parishioners and ministry leaders from across the state, including participants from as far away as Infant of Prague Catholic School in Jacksonville. Attendees represented a wide range of ministries, including Walking With Moms in Need, post-abortion healing, care for creation, migrant and refugee outreach, racial justice, poverty reduction and other life and dignity initiatives.
During the Mass, Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama emphasized the gift of life and God's love for every human person. Following the liturgy, a Respect Life Summit hosted by Students for Life brought together students, grassroots leaders and pro-life advocates from around the state for fellowship, formation and discussion on building a culture of life. The summit featured speakers, networking opportunities and practical strategies for engaging others with dignity and respect while promoting the sanctity of human life.
“The Respect Life Mass reminds us that every human life is a gift from God and worthy of dignity and protection,” said Deacon Joshua Klickman, diocesan coordinator of Human Life and Dignity Ministries. “By bringing together students, parishioners and leaders from many different life and justice ministries, we strengthen our shared commitment to building a culture where every person is welcomed, valued and able to flourish.”
Diocesan leaders plan to continue holding the Annual Respect Life Mass in October, with Oct. 1, 2027, identified as the tentative date for the next celebration.
