Thursday, 01 December 2011 10:40

The Diocese of Wichita will host a one-day bus pilgrimage for life to Topeka Monday, Jan. 23.
Bonnie Toombs, director of the Respect Life and Social Justice Office, said the pilgrims will be in solidarity with hundreds of youth and their chaperones from our diocese who will be Marching for Life in Washington, D.C., at the same time.
“The faithful of the diocese are invited to join together in Topeka to be that voice and presence for those who cannot speak for themselves. In speaking up for the unborn, the youth of our diocese are also speaking up for themselves. We need you to speak up for the unborn too!” 
The pilgrimage is a one-day trip open for all ages.  Buses will leave from St. Elizabeth Ann Seton and Church of the Magdalen parishes, both in Wichita, at about 7:30 a.m. and arrive in Topeka at the Ramada Inn around 10 a.m. A bus from Southeast Kansas is also planned.
In addition to speakers and music, confessions will be heard, Mass with Bishop Michael O. Jackels will be celebrated, and lunch will be provided at the Ramada Inn. The group will then go to the Capitol steps to be a prayerful witness as they pray the Rosary for Life.
This year, there will be an option to march to the state Capital (about a half mile walk) or ride the bus. While there, the pilgrims will hear from several of pro-life legislators. Gov. Sam Brownback may join the group.
Those accompanying school classes or youth groups must be VIRTUS compliant.

Bus trip, meal only $35
The cost of the pilgrimage is $35 per person and includes transportation, a ticket into the Mass with Bishop Jackels, the rally, and lunch. Buses will be back in Wichita about 7 p.m.
Registration forms are available online at www.respectlifesocialjustice.org. For more information, call (316) 269-3935.