Rockhurst Students Take Part in March for Life

Last week, a group of Rockhurst University students braved the cold to take part in the 46^th annual March for Life in Washington, D.C.

The students were joined by Mary Cary, department secretary for biology, education and chemistry, and the Rev. Brian Frain, S.J., assistant professor of education, for the trip, which has become an annual one for many members of the Rockhurst Respect Life pro-life campus group. Junior Dorothy Keenan said 2019 marked her third trek to the nation’s capital for the march, which draws thousands of all ages from across the country each year. But it was her first time with a behind the scenes role, as the trip’s coordinator. She said her responsibilities gave her a new appreciation for the experience.

“Going on the March is something I am truly passionate about, as is serving those around me, so I feel like through this role I was able to do both,” she said.

Lilly Lutz, also a junior and the current president of Rockhurst Respect Life, referred to the trip as a “pilgrimage,” and said through the speakers and the people around her at the march, she felt especially blessed. Though the group from Rockhurst made up a small portion of the thousands who were in attendance, Lutz said it was no less meaningful.

“I love that I have been blessed with the opportunity to lead a group of students to fight for something that I am so passionate about,” Lutz said. “I could not imagine my Rockhurst experience without Respect Life — it has given me so much and for that I am thankful.”

For Keenan, one of the indelible experiences was the Mass celebrated at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle prior to the march. She said being surrounded by others for a common cause was inspiring, she said.

And similar to past years, the experience provided an opportunity for the group of Rockhurst students, as well as their staff and faculty companions on the journey, to grow much closer.

“Every year, the experience becomes greater than the last,” Lutz said. “Even though a large group of students does not go, we are able to build a beautiful and tight-knit community.”