ROCKFORD—It’s a first: a local Walk for Life to mark the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision to legalize abortion in the United States.

Although the March for Life in Washington and the March for Life in Chicago are terrific events, with the coronavirus this year, a Rockford walk may be extra attractive to many — and safer without the transportation challenges of the larger marches.

The Rockford Walk for Life is being organized by the Rockford Family Initiative. It will take place on Jan. 23, beginning at 10 a.m. at the Stanley J. Roszkowski United States Federal Courthouse, 327 S. Church St. in downtown Rockford west of the Rock River.

Participants will gather, then walk in procession together to the State of Illinois building E.J. Zeke Giorgi Center, 200 S. Wyman St., then back to the courthouse.

There is a good amount of free parking near the courthouse.

With 60 million abortions over the years in mind, the Rockford Family Initiative has begun reaching out to area churches to encourage participation in this new event for life.

“We should not lose our peace even though the State of Illinois has legalized and pays for abortions for all nine months including partial birth abortions,” says the initiative’s letter to pastors and their congregations.

“We should not lose our confidence in God even though a pro-abortion administration may be taking office in Washington this January that supports abortion all nine months including partial-birth abortion,” it continues. “As Christians have always done we must give up our comfort, and publicly, with charity and truth, be a witness to Jesus Christ and the pro-life message.

“This will be a peaceful, prayerful witness for Jesus Christ and for the life of every person — we believe that every life matters.”

Church groups are encouraged to create a sign with its name and message to walk behind together. The Rockford Family Initiative can create a sign for participants upon request.

Organizers ask for prayers for the walk and for positive effects from it.

“Through Jesus Christ, we will be a prayerful witness to publicly stand with children killed by abortion and with families that have been hurt and lied to by the culture of death,” says the initiative.

“Pray the Rockford Walk for Life will open hearts and minds to the love of Jesus Christ and His love for all people.

“We can and will be a joyful public witness to the love of Jesus Christ and His eternal love for all of His children. Please join us,” the statement adds.