Each January, the National Prayer Vigil for Life is hosted by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB), the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, and The Catholic University of America’s Office of Campus Ministry to pray for an end to abortion and a greater respect for all human life. Thousands of pilgrims typically attend the vigil each year. The Basilica will not be open to the public for the 2021 vigil due to coronavirus restrictions. This year, for the first time ever, in addition to the televised Mass, bishops in dioceses across the country will be taking turns leading live-streamed holy hours every hour on the hour throughout the all-night vigil.

The vigil will begin with a live broadcast at 8:00pm on Thur, Jan 28 from the Basilica with a rosary, followed by Mass opening the National Prayer Vigil for Life. The principal celebrant and homilist for the opening Mass will be Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City, KS, who is chairman of the Committee on Pro-Life Activities for the USCCB. After the Mass and throughout the night, holy hours led by bishops from various dioceses around the country will be broadcast on the USCCB’s website. The vigil concludes at 8:00am on Fri, Jan 29 with Mass celebrated by Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore. “Now, more than ever, our nation is in need of prayer for the protection of the unborn and the dignity of all human life,” said Archbishop Naumann. “I am happy to be joined by bishops in dioceses across the country who are hosting pro-life prayer events, including the overnight hours of Eucharistic adoration. I invite all Catholics to spend time with Our Lord and join in this nationwide vigil for life.”

Schedule of the 2021 National Prayer Vigil for Life (all times are Eastern Time)
Thursday, January 28:
8:00pm National Rosary for Life
8:30pm Opening Mass with Archbishop Naumann
9:45pm Holy Hour for Life
11:00pm Live-stream of holy hours throughout the night

The live television broadcasts on Jan 28 from 8:00-11:00pm and on Jan 29 from 8:00-9:00am will be provided by the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN) and will also be available via live-stream on the Basilica’s website. Live-streaming information for the overnight bishop-led holy hours from various dioceses will be provided on the USCCB’s website.