Over a thousand people defy rain and cold to defend life in Lithuania
More than a thousand life advocates gathered in Vilnius for Lithuania's second March for Life, facing rain and cold to affirm the dignity of every human life.
TL;DR
- More than a thousand life advocates participated in Lithuania's second March for Life in Vilnius.
- The event aimed to affirm the dignity and value of every human life, particularly the unborn.
- Participants faced cold weather, rain, and fog.
- The march occurred amidst ongoing political debates on family policies and declining birth rates, including reproductive legislation like abortion and IVF.
- Speakers addressed the realities of family life, including motherhood, fatherhood, and challenges like child loss, disability, illness, and old age.
- Attendees and speakers affirmed the equal dignity of every person, regardless of health, age, or ethnicity.
- Personal testimonies, such as that of Saulius Karosas, highlighted the transformative value of embracing children with special needs.
- The event drew international participants and speakers, including Agnese Irbe, Marcin Perłowski, and Patricia Sandoval.
- Patricia Sandoval shared her personal testimony of undergoing abortions and later working for Planned Parenthood, describing the Vilnius march as deeply moving.
- Archbishop Gintaras Grušas of Vilnius emphasized the need for a 'culture of life' that provides practical support for pregnant women and families.
- Archbishop Grušas highlighted the crucial role of men in supporting mothers and preparing for children, citing Saint Joseph as a model.
- Archbishop Kęstutis Kėvalas of Kaunas called for men to embrace their roles as fathers, leaders, and providers and for all Christians to take personal responsibility in creating a culture of life.
- Kėvalas identified a "problem of faith" and a materialistic mindset as threats to a culture of life, advocating for trust in God and active participation in building life.