Why Is One-Third of Gen Z Missing?
Why Is One-Third of Gen Z Missing?
By John Wagner, Class of '20
Students from Saint Louis de Montfort Academy joined tens of thousands of pro-life Americans at the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C.
For our students, the march is never merely symbolic but deeply personal.
In the decades since abortion became widespread in America, tens of millions of unborn children have lost their lives. For today’s high school generation, that means millions of missing classmates, teammates, and friends. Some estimates suggest that as many as one in three of their generation was never given the opportunity to be born.
That sobering reality weighs heavily on our young men — and strengthens their resolve to oppose the sin of abortion and the culture of death it has fostered.
These Boys Don’t Surrender
At the Academy, surrender is not an option.
Our students are formed to stand for truth with courage. They understand that ignoring injustice does not make it disappear. To remain silent in the face of abortion would be a failure to their duty as Soldiers of Christ.
At the march, their witness was both audible. They played in the TFP marching band through the streets of the capital. They carried pro-life and pro-family banners. They distributed thousands of educational pamphlets. Above all, they prayed.
Headmaster of the all-boys boarding school, Ted Huereña, reflected on the significance of the day:
“Our students understand that each child lost to abortion has a human soul created and loved by God. We march because charity demands that we defend the innocent, and because authentic Catholic education must form young men who are willing to stand publicly for what is right.”
Restoring Moral Values
The hope our students bring to Washington is not naïve optimism. It is disciplined, grounded, and prepared for perseverance.
Recent national polling continues to show strong pro-life conviction among many young Americans. The presence of so many students at the March for Life is visible proof that the movement to restore moral values is not fading, but enduring.
Our students recognize that authentic cultural renewal requires patience and sacrifice. They are prepared for the long work of rebuilding a society that once again puts God first and protects the sacred institution of the family.
Trusting in Our Lady
Inspired by the spirituality of Saint Louis-Marie Grignion de Montfort, the Academy entrusts its pro-life efforts to the Blessed Mother. Our students know that the defense of life is not only a civic duty but also a spiritual one. Their formation reminds them that every innocent life bears the image of God and must be defended accordingly.
This supernatural perspective deepens their seriousness. They understand that prayer, sacrifice, and grace are indispensable in this pro-life crusade.
As the sun set over the Capitol, the Montfort students brought up the rear of the march, drums and bagpipes echoing down the avenue. Another year’s march concluded — but the mission continues.
For the Academy, the March for Life is not an isolated event. It reflects a broader commitment woven into the school’s curriculum and culture: forming Catholic young men ready to lead, to serve, and to defend the innocent.
The young men of Saint Louis de Montfort Academy will continue to pray, speak, and march with conviction, courage, and supernatural hope.
Our Lady of Victories, pray for us!
Saint Louis de Montfort, pray for us.