The freezing pre-dawn snow and rain did not put a damper on the smiles and determination of over 50 students and four faculty members from Christ the King R.H.S., Middle Village, as they boarded the bus for the 2012 March for Life in Washington, DC.

Anthony Padro, a senior who will be heading to Marine Corps boot camp after graduation, was among the many students sharing their belief in this event.

“We are proud to represent the students from Christ the King in this March for Life!” he said.

A welcome guest on the bus was Msgr. Edward B. Scharfenberger, pastor of St. Matthias parish, Ridgewood.

“I was happy they had room for me on the bus for this important cause,” he said. “Christ the King has always been a part of my family.  I had a brother and sister graduate from here and I clearly remember when the school was built and the fund-raising efforts involved.”

Msgr. Scharfenberger said the March is a very worthwhile effort.

“This day is not only a religious statement but about the value and good of all human life.”