Examining the need to build a stronger culture of life and all that it entails is the focus of the 2026 Standing Together for Life Mass & Expo.
Central to that effort is the recognition that all human life – from “womb to tomb” – must be protected and treated with respect by all people who consider themselves pro-life.
Reflecting on the past 50 years since the legalization of abortion in the U.S. and how there has been a growing disregard for the sanctity of human life well beyond the unborn, Rachel Hendricks, diocesan Respect Life coordinator, said, “These realities prompted the creation of a space for people with concerns about various issues to stand together in solidarity, to build a stronger culture of life.”
The Jan. 23 event in St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, Freehold, will begin with a Mass celebrated at 11 a.m. by Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M. The Life Expo that will follow in the parish hall will feature an array of local organizations dedicated to upholding and promoting human dignity throughout all stages of life providing information and resources for: women in crisis pregnancies; shelters that care for pregnant women; pregnancy resource centers; infertility support services; support for adoption, foster care and persons with disabilities; prison ministry, and the diocesan Department of Catholic Cemeteries, which offers a free-of-charge infant burial ministry to those experiencing pregnancy and stillborn loss.
Among the new exhibitors added to this year’s roster include a state-of-the art mobile ultrasound unit which offers free ultrasounds to any pregnant woman who would like to see their baby and a non-profit offering housing and pastoral support for victims of domestic violence.
Hendricks said she hopes that all who attend the Mass for Life and Expo come away inspired to: learn new things about various life issues; become acquainted with organizations that serve and advocate for various vulnerable populations, and become equipped to take action in some way.
“Standing Together for Life is meant to offer opportunities for all of us to see that, whether we are called to serve the poor, the needy, the disabled, the imprisoned or the pregnant mom and baby in crisis, we are all serving part of the mission of the Church, to recognize the face of Christ in every one of our neighbors in need and to answer his call to serve,” Hendricks said.
“Once we see the interconnectedness that exists between support for the people in need and the need for the faithful to grow in our understanding about other life issues, we can better recognize our own calling to participate in building a culture of life in unity with the greater Church community.”
No registration is required to attend. For more information, visit dioceseoftrenton.org/standing-together-for-life.
