
Since it was first held in 1979 under the title of National Rosary for Life and All-Night Vigil, the National Prayer Vigil for Life has been an important tradition at the Basilica. Occurring in the Crypt Chapel and celebrated by Father John Gabin of Philadelphia, the first Vigil Mass was attended by a mere 50 people. Prayers, eucharistic adoration, and other devotions occurred through the night, with Mass at midnight, and the March for Life taking place in the morning.
Now, over 20,000 pilgrims attend the Vigil each year, overflowing from the Great Upper Church of the Basilica into the Crypt Church, Memorial Hall and side chapels, while hundreds of clergy concelebrate the Opening Mass.
As we prepare for the 2025 National Prayer Vigil for Life, we invite you to watch the opening Masses from the past five years and pray for the unborn.
The Opening Mass and Holy Hour of the National Prayer Vigil for Life – January 18, 2024
The Opening Mass and Holy Hour of the National Prayer Vigil for Life – January 19, 2023
The Opening Mass and Holy Hour of the National Prayer Vigil for Life – January 20, 2022
The Opening Mass and Holy Hour of the National Prayer Vigil for Life – January 28, 2021
The Opening Mass and Holy Hour of the National Prayer Vigil for Life – January 17, 2020
You’re Invited: The 2025 National Prayer Vigil for Life
We invite you to attend the 2025 National Prayer Vigil for Life, which will take place Thursday, January 23 through Friday, January 24. Join us at the Basilica as we pray for the protection of the unborn.