Roe v Wade Observance Planned

Roe v. Wade, the historic case in 1973 that legalized abortion in all 50 states, is arguably one of the most controversial and divisive cases in U.S. Supreme Court history.

The public is invited to attend a memorial observance of the 40th anniversary of Roe v. Wade from 12 to 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 21, on the Pettis County Courthouse west lawn in Sedalia.

The observance will begin with the tolling of bells, followed by prayer, music, an address by Rev. David Bannister, pastor of Crossroads Church of God, and then a prayerful march around the courthouse and end with recommitment, prayer, and song. The event is outside to allow for participation and health precautions..

The anniversary of Roe v. Wade has become a pivotal date, bringing together hundreds of thousands of pro-life advocates across the country in solidarity to influence and encourage a society that values the life of the unborn and ends abortion. Since the court ruling in 1973, an estimated 62+ million babies have been aborted.

“We’ve hosted a memorial service in Sedalia for more than 40 years to reaffirm our commitment to defend the life of the unborn and to see that these lives regain protection by the law, “ said Bonnie Diefendorf, chairman, Sedalia Chapter of Missouri Right to Life.

“It’s encouraging to see the number of attendees grow throughout the years. Legalized abortion is not the legacy we want to leave the next generation. Youth attending the memorial realize that just because abortion is accepted by law doesn’t mean that it is right. We all must take responsibility to change our society from a culture of death to one that respects and values life from conception to natural death.

“Protection of life has to be a number one priority, “ said Diefendorf. “This dark anniversary reminds us of the lives lost, but the decline in abortions across our nation and the more than 50 pro-life laws passed in Missouri since 1973 are evidence that Americans are realizing the devastating consequences of abortion in our society and are uniting together to protect and defend the sanctity of life.”

Local pastors and community leaders will lead the event.

--Submitted