Hundreds march for life in Columbus

Hundreds of people gathered in downtown Columbus on Friday for the fifth annual Ohio March for Life. Despite rain and cloudy skies, participants from various dioceses across the state attended a concert, rally, and noon march.

The day began with a Mass for Life at St. Joseph Cathedral. Archbishop Robert Casey of Cincinnati preached the Mass, which was also attended by Bishop Earl Fernandes and Bishop Daniel Thomas of Toledo. The cathedral reached capacity with students from Catholic schools, families, and individuals.

Mary Kristof, associate director for the Diocese of Columbus Office of Pro-Life Ministries, noted that abortion numbers in Ohio continue to grow and cited statistics showing one in four women in the United States have had an abortion by age 45. Kristof said the Mass provided joy and renewed energy for the pro-life movement.