AUGUSTA – Maine Right to Life will host its annual Hands Around the Capitol memorial on Saturday, Jan. 12, recognizing the 35 years since the enactment of Roe v. Wade legalized abortion.

This year’s program will begin with a 10 a.m. Mass celebrated by Bishop Richard Malone of the Maine diocese at St. Mary’s Church in Augusta, and a prayer service led by Pastor Lester Dow at Elim Christian Fellowship in Augusta.

Those who choose not to attend the Mass or prayer service are welcome to gather at St. Mary’s gym around 11 a.m. to join the rally and warm-up prior to the march to the Capitol.

The rally, which will begin at 11:15 a.m. in St. Mary’s gym in Augusta will kick off with an invocation and presentations by pro-life leaders from all age groups and walks of life.

Bishop Malone, along with other prominent pro-life leaders and legislators, will speak at the rally. Linda Milliken, president of the Maine Right to Life Committee, will lead the march to Capitol.

“Milliken will carry 35 roses, representing the number of years commemorating the 35th anniversary of that fateful decision known as Roe v. Wade, which has resulted in the deaths of 50 million unborn children,” said Teresa Tumidajski, executive director of Maine Right to Life Committee.

The Capitol bell will ring 35 times, representing the number of years since Roe v. Wade was enacted.