The Women’s Care Center and the Knights of Columbus welcomed Bishop Earl Fernandes on Monday, July 18 at the center’s 935 E. Broad St. location to receive and bless an ultrasound machine, purchased by the Knights, that will allow more mothers and fathers to see their baby for the first time.
“How wonderful it was to see our new shepherd bless this lifesaving device and pray over all present,” said Chris Sarka, Ohio state warden of the Knights.
“The Columbus Chapter Knights of Columbus raised 25% of the funds to match a donation made to the Women’s Care Center, and the Supreme Council contributed 50% of the funds … as part of the Ultrasound Initiative Program.”
Over the past 10 years, the Knights of Columbus have placed more than 1,500 ultrasound machines in pregnancy resource centers, with machines in every state and throughout the world. Many women come to the Women’s Care Center in search of resources and hope, and with programs like the Ultrasound Initiative, the Knights and Women’s Care Center have undoubtedly saved lives.
Women’s Care Center directors Madeline Pesavento and Katie Beiter were in attendance, along with care center staff members, to welcome Bishop Fernandes. During his traditional blessing, the bishop sprinkled Holy Water in the ultrasound room and on those in attendance.
After the blessing, the bishop toured the Women’s Care Center, met with staff and spoke about the importance of resources, accompaniment and support for pregnant women and their babies.
The Women’s Care Center welcomes more than 50 women each day for services and parenting classes. And, with skilled support and 2,850 ultrasounds performed last year, it is no surprise that 9 in 10 women choose life.
With the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, more women than ever will come to Women’s Care Center first. Pesavento said, “Because of this support, thousands of mothers will have the opportunity to hear their babies’ heart beating and see their little limbs moving. So many lives will be saved.
“The Women’s Care Center is thankful for the generosity of the Knights of Columbus for the purchase of this ultrasound machine, and we are eternally grateful for the blessings offered by Bishop Fernandes.”