By Jordan Green
SAGINAW — Braving the cold and rainy weather, supporters of the pro-life movement held their own March for Life on Friday, Jan. 24. They made the voice of the voiceless heard throughout Saginaw.
The Saginaw Diocese’s Bishop, Robert Gruss, led the march. He felt inspired by the number of people who came out.
“It gives people a chance to be a voice here locally,” says Gruss. “This march is to be in union with the people marching for life across the country.”
This is the first march the Saginaw Diocese has held. The event kicked off at 9 a.m. at the Holy Family Church in Saginaw. The march ended at the Cathedral of Mary, followed by a mass.
Meanwhile, Washington D.C. held its 47th annual March for Life, featuring a speech from President Donald Trump — making him the first U.S. President to attend the event.
begin the local March for Life in Saginaw. Friday, Jan. 24.
(Maddie Fordos/Photographer)
Lori Becker, the event organizer, says she wants women who are considering abortion to know that the Saginaw Diocese will walk with them through the journey and help them choose life.
“We have resources available for young moms to make the choice of life and help them succeed,” says Becker.
Lisa Wright, member of the Saginaw Diocese, says there are many places for pregnant women to turn to, they just need to reach out.
“She’s not alone; she’s never alone,” says Wright. “The Christian community is behind her 100% in whatever she chooses. [It’s important for a woman] to reach out before she makes that decision, because it’s going to change her whole life… babies change everything.”
Geri Rudolf, member of the Saginaw Diocese, says the march can show the community that the pro-life movement is not something that just happens in Washington D.C.
“We have people who have strong feelings and emotions about this movement here locally,” adds Rudolf. “The feeling is just as strong. Whether we’re here on Washington Avenue or in Washington D.C., the passion is just the same.”
Abortion by the Numbers
In recent years, the number of abortions have hit a national all-time low, with a 19% decrease from 1,058,000 abortions in 2014 to 862,000 abortions in 2017.
Michigan accounted for more than 26,000 abortions in 2017 and had an 8% decrease from 2014 to 2017.
More than half of all abortions obtained by women in the U.S. are in their 20’s.
Resources:
Life Clinic Community Resource Center
4364 State St, Saginaw, MI 48603
(989) 754-0091
4818 N Saginaw Rd, Midland, MI 48640
(989) 835-1500
Beacon of Hope Pregnancy Care Center
2360 Midland Rd, Bay City, MI 48706
(989) 922-5433
