WASHINGTON (CBSDC/AP) — Pope Benedict XVI takes to Twitter to offer support to the anti-abortion protesters who will march in Washington, D.C., Friday.

Thousands are expected for the noon Friday rally at the National Mall and in front of the Supreme Court.

The pontiff tweeted that he will be with the protesters “from afar.”

“I join all those marching for life from afar, and pray that political leaders will protect the unborn and promote a culture of life,” the pope said on Twitter.

I join all those marching for life from afar, and pray that political leaders will protect the unborn and promote a culture of life.—
PopeBenedictXVI (@PopeBenedictXIV) January 25, 2013

The Catholic Church believes that life begins at conception.

Organizers say the event will feature former Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum. Reps. Chris Smith of New Jersey and Diane Black of Tennessee are also scheduled speakers.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision, which legalized abortion. Earlier this week, opponents marked the anniversary with workshops, prayers and calls for more limits on abortion rights.

Many streets will be closed for the rally.

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