Father Van Allen Hager, a priest of the Consolata Missionaries, passed away on October 10 at the age of 80, leaving a profound legacy in the pro-life movement in Colombia. Born in New York in 1944, he came to Colombia more than 15 years ago, where he dedicated his life to defending the unborn. Each morning, he could be seen in front of the Oriéntame abortion center in Bogotá, with a folding chair, an image of the Virgin of Guadalupe, and a rosary, ready to pray and offer support to women and couples considering abortion. Through this dedication, he gained the admiration of volunteers and activists, especially those from 40 Days for Life, with whom he formed a close friendship and whom he supported each year in their prayer campaigns.

Father Hager’s drive for the pro-life cause partly stemmed from his family history: his grandmother became pregnant with his father after a rape but respected the child's life and embraced her motherhood, an act he recognized as inspirational for his vocation for life.

This led him to become actively involved in the pro-life movement in 1996, regularly praying for the victims of abortion.

Though Bogotá is a city with a rainy climate, this was never an obstacle for him to reach the vigil site in front of the abortion center, where, together with the 40 Days for Life volunteers, he offered counsel and prayer, leading several women to continue their pregnancies in his later years.

In his messages, Father Hager encouraged Colombians to oppose abortion-permitting laws and to join the 40 Days for Life campaign, promoting the value of life from conception.

In one of his last campaigns, the priest highlighted the achievement of saving the lives of 15 babies, and over the past year, more than 100, thanks to his guidance and support.

His passing has caused great sorrow both in his religious congregation and in the pro-life movement in Colombia. The Regional Directorate of the Consolata Missionaries expressed their "great sorrow and hope" in a message, remembering him as a faithful servant who fulfilled his mission with dedication.

They also asked the Virgin Mary and the congregation's founder, Joseph Allamano, to accompany him in his meeting with God, hoping he will continue interceding for Life from Heaven.

40 Days for Life Colombia remembered Father Van Allen Hager as a good shepherd who led with courage, perseverance, and love in peaceful struggle, prayer, and intercession for the unborn, expressing their gratitude for his life and testimony, praying for his eternal rest, and hoping his example will continue to inspire those who defend Life.