By Gretchen Keiser

Traditionally the date of Jan. 22 in Atlanta means a public witness by people who oppose the practice of abortion and its legalization throughout pregnancy by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1973.

The 29th anniversary year of Roe vs. Wade, the landmark abortion case, will again be an occasion for a rally on the steps of the Georgia Capitol and a silent march through the street of the city.

The rally will be preceded by a Mass for the Unborn, celebrated by Father Richard Lopez and concelebrated by other priests of the archdiocese, at the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

The red brick shrine, one block form the Capitol at 48 Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, has been the setting for the Mass for the past three years, a tradition initiated by Peggy Sinanian, director of the Pro-Life Office of the archdiocese. “I felt this would be a rallying point for Catholics. It has been a beautiful thing,” Mrs. Sinanian said.

As in previous years, Mary Rogers of St. Jude’s parish, a professional recording artiest, will be cantor and soloist for the Mass. Alan Brown, St. Jude’s music director, will coordinate the music. Father Lopez, religion teacher at St. Pius X High School, Atlanta, will be the homilist for the Mass, which will be celebrated at 10 a.m.

The program on the Capitol program is organized by the Together for Life Committee, a coalition of pro-life groups.

The public demonstration each year strengthens and renews the various pro-life organizations and individuals who work privately in this arena, Mrs. Sinanian said.

“I think it gives a message that pro-life is a basic concern. I think it keeps the pressure on the Georgia General Assembly and I think it rejuvenates the people to see all this witness.

“They bring banners and placards, they bring their children, and children are encouraged. Older people come. It shows that every life is special. It is wonderful.”

The numbers have increased dramatically in part because people see their sentiments are shared by others, Mrs. Sinanian said. “Everyone votes with their feet.” Last year an estimated 15,000 people took part in the rally and silent march. The organizers obtain a parade permit and the march is conducted in organized fashion with marshals during the lunch break for most businesses and corporate offices in the Five Points area of Atlanta.