What a privilege it is to once more be able stand up for Life and declare to the world that CFCFFL is there to "CHOOSE LIFE, RESPECT LIFE, and DEFEND LIFE," as our placards say.
FLASH NEWS! Because of the predicted weather condition for Sunday, January 17th, the Timeline has changed. The Program has changed - in that it will be shortened. Instead of having two Rallies - one each before and after the March, we will have only one and that is BEFORE THE MARCH. It will considerably shorten this year's March for Life Chicago. The route planned for this year will still start and end at the Federal Plaza at 50 W. Adams Street, Chicago (Adams & Dearborn) and will officially start at 2:00pm. Gathering and Music will start at 1:30pm.:
I'm resending the Coordinator's Packet. Please read it, particularly re Transportation and Parking information. Where possible, it is strongly encouraged that you take the Metra or Bus to downtown. For those in the suburbs, discounted parking can be had at spothero.com and parking panda.com, subject to availability on a first come first serve basis.
There are several events sponsored by several parishes and groups prior to the March. List of these events is available at respectlifechicago.org
PLEASE DO NOT FORGET TO BRING YOUR PLACARDS - These were distributed last year by chapters/ministries. I hope you have them - for those who cannot come and is in possession of these placards, please give them to those who are coming. Also, please make sure you bring them back home with you.
Let's all meet and gather at the same spot as last year - and that is at the foot of the stage on the left side facing the stage (stage right) I have a new CFCFFL Illinois banner (about 9' wide) and would like our YFL youth leaders to carry them and lead the march for CFCFFL. We can all then march behind the banner.
This year, the March will be led by our very own EJ Yambao, a YFL product now a Students for Life leader. He is the son of Eric and Meng Yambao of the West Chapter. He will be the last speaker before the March.
Here are some guidelines for Marchers:
1. Revised Map attached (the map in the Coordinator's Packet has been superseded)
2. Keep to the center of the street
3. This is a family friendly event. Be Nice, be joyful/peaceful/respectful.
4. Counter Protesters are expected. Do Not argue with anyone. If you are having a problem, direct it to the Police. If you see any other pro-lifers arguing with the other side, please discourage them from doing so and direct them to the police to take care of the issue. Do not engage. Do not respond. Do not Touch. Do not be forceful with words or action.
5. There will be hot coffee and chocolate for sale during the rally.
6. There will be porta potties installed at the Plaza
7. Dress layered to keep warm
Bring family and friends. This will be an inspiring day to remember. You will have a story to tell your children and grandchildren of how you have fought for a culture of life for them and their children.
Let's continue to pray for warmer temperatures on Sunday to the God who has control of all that He has created - the sun, the moon, the rain, the snow and yes - the weather temperature. And because of this, we do not fear! Nothing will stop us from promoting a culture of life not only in Illinois but for the entire nation.
As Emily Zender, Chair of this year's March for Life Chicago, said: "the march is going to be fantastic. We've had incredible news coverage thus far - more than we ever have in the past. The major networks have confirmed they plan to attend! These changes will ensure we get the best of both worlds: marching to save babies and staying warm".
Let's all pray, "Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for us and the 2016 March for Life Chicago and all the other marches in the country.
For the sake of His sorrowful passion, Have mercy on us and on the whole world".
See you Sunday! God bless,
margie
PS: For volunteer marshals, the 1:30p meeting time with Rich Wenzl still stands. Thank you for your most needed assistance. As we have seen in the past, faithful pro-lifers are always present regardless of the weather. So we still expect 8,000-10,000 on Sunday!
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