Pope Leo XIV reportedly offered words of encouragement and his apostolic blessing to participants in the March for Life, urging them — especially young people — to continue defending human life “at every stage” through peaceful public witness and sustained engagement with society’s leaders.

In his message, Vatican News reported, the Holy Father assured those planning to attend the march in Washington, D.C., of his “spiritual closeness” and thanked them for what he called their “eloquent public witness” to the principle that “the protection of the right to life constitutes the indispensable foundation of every other human right.”

The message, widely publicized by pro-life advocates and said to be released by the Vatican Jan. 22, is dated Jan. 17. 

Readers can find the full text below.

To the Participants in the 2026 March for Life

I send warm greetings to those of you participating in the 2026 March for Life. I likewise express heartfelt appreciation, and assure you of my spiritual closeness as you gather for this eloquent public witness to affirm that “the protection of the right to life constitutes the indispensable foundation of every other human right” (Address to Members of the Diplomatic Corps Accredited to the Holy See, 9 January 2026).

Indeed, “a society is healthy and truly progresses only when it safeguards the sanctity of human life and works actively to promote it” (ibid.). In this regard, I would encourage you, especially the young people, to continue striving to ensure that life is respected in all of its stages through appropriate efforts at every level of society, including dialogue with civil and political leaders.

May Jesus, who promised to be with us always (cf. Mt 28:20), accompany you today as you courageously and peacefully march on behalf of unborn children. By advocating for them, please know that you are fulfilling the Lord’s command to serve him in the least of our brothers and sisters (cf. Mt 25:31-46).

With these sentiments I entrust all of you, as well as those who support you with their prayers and sacrifices, to the intercession of Mary Immaculate, Patroness of the United States of America, and I gladly impart my Apostolic Blessing as a pledge of abundant heavenly graces.

From the Vatican, 17 January 2026

LEO PP. XIV