On the eve of the annual march in the US capital, the Pope encourages participants, especially young people, to promote respect for life at all stages through dialogue and courage.

Pope Leo XIV has sent a warm message of support and spiritual closeness to the thousands of people who will participate tomorrow, January 23, 2026, in the March for Life in Washington, D.C., United States. In this 53rd edition of the event, whose theme is “Life is a Gift,” the Holy Father reaffirms that the defense of human life from conception to natural death is not only a moral issue but the essential foundation of all other human rights and of a truly healthy and progressive society.

In his message, published by Vatican News, the Pope expresses his appreciation for this “eloquent public witness” that brings together people of diverse ages and backgrounds to proclaim the inviolable value of every human life. Recalling his recent address to the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Holy See (last January 9), Leo XIV emphasizes that a society truly progresses only when it safeguards the sanctity of human life and actively strives to promote it.

Addressing young people in particular, the Pope urged them to persevere in this commitment: “Continue striving to ensure that life is respected at all its stages, through appropriate efforts at all levels of society, including dialogue with civil and political leaders.” He insisted that this work must be carried out firmly but always peacefully, building bridges instead of walls.

The message concludes with a note of hope and prayer: the Pope entrusts the participants to the accompaniment of Jesus, who promised to always be with us, and invites them to march with courage and serenity on behalf of unborn children. “In defending them,” he tells them, “know that you are fulfilling the Lord’s command to serve him in the least of our brothers and sisters.” Finally, he entrusts all those present, as well as those who support them with prayer and sacrifice, to the protection of Mary Immaculate, patroness of the United States.

Leo XIV—who, as has been recalled in various media, participated in past editions of the march when he was young—reinforces the central message of the Church: life is a precious gift that deserves to be protected and celebrated in all its phases, and only from that conviction can a future of authentic justice and peace be built.