Rochester isn't behind the times, but El Salvador got there first!

The South American country of El Salvador was the first one to decree and celebrate a day to recognize the unborn child, so vulnerable and at the same time so infinitely valuable.

Since then, the day has been formally established in Argentina, Chile, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, the Dominican Republic, and Peru have formally inaugurated the same day.  Drafts have been proposed in Brazil.  Non-governmental observances are noted in Austria, Slovakia, Uruguay, and Spain, which may result in formal recognition.

In the U.S., the Knights of Columbus have adopted the International Day of the Unborn Child, which they celebrate on March 25, the feast of the Annunciation.

National:  This year (2004) the Supreme Council of the Knights of Columbus will have a Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington.  The celebrant and homilist will be Bishop Thomas V. Daily.

Rochester:  Locally, there will be a pro-life Mass in honor of unborn children and for an end to abortion. It will be celebrated at 5:30 PM at St. Jude's Church, with a rosary afterwards. The celebration is organized by the Knights of Columbus Council #10758 and the John W. Steger Assembly.  A spokesman for the Knights says that the Mass is open to everyone.  Families and children are welcome.