“The Flame of Life” is the initiative of the office for youth pastoral ministry of the diocese of Lamego (Portugal), mindful of the forthcoming referendum on abortion due to be held on 11 February. It began on 19 January with a Prayer Vigil officiated by Bishop Giacinto Botelho of Lamego. Ever since then the “flame” has continued its pilgrimage through the diocese, punctuated by vigils, liturgical celebrations, and awareness-raising campaigns to bring home to people the need to respect, and not destroy, life. The torch reached the Marian Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima on 4 February; it was deposited at the feet of the Virgin to whom is entrusted the intercession in favour of life.
