A table at a parish “baby shower” displays an assortment of items for pregnant or parenting mothers, donated by parishioners. (Courtesy Respect Life Office)
Special to the Herald
Pregnant and parenting moms are in our parishes and neighborhoods, but in desperation are turning to other places for help.
Walking with Moms in Need is a nationwide program established by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in 2020 to welcome pregnant and parenting moms to honor the gift of life. Respect Life coordinators across Hawaii took part in online training for three months, and the program was initiated in the islands on Sept. 8, 2022 — the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
St. Ann Parish was the first to pilot this program by holding a “baby shower” with the support of its parish priest, Father Richard McNally, as well as Sophia Catabran, Mike Del Rosario and the parish’s Respect Life team. The event was a huge success with many parishioners donating diapers, wipes and a slew of new clothing for babies of all ages, newborn to toddler. The outpouring of generosity from parishioners inspired St. Ann to designate a “baby boutique center” just for the items.
St. Ann was followed by St. George in Waimanalo, St. Elizabeth in Aiea, Holy Trinity in Kuliouou, St. Michael in Waialua and St. Catherine on Kauai. Each parish has many stories to share on how the fathers, mothers and families enjoyed this time in honoring the gift of life and receiving blessings from their parish priest.
Walking with Moms in Need helps mothers learn that the church provides pastoral counseling, support and connections to resources that are available in the community.
The program has helped bring young couples back to the church, enabling them to hear the call to baptize their children, inquire about faith formation classes for their older children and give back. Some continue to ask for support, and parishes have graciously extended themselves by continually walking with the mothers.
We especially thank Catholic Charities, the Knights of Columbus, Pearson Pregnancy Center and the parishes for continually giving their time, talent and treasures to this wonderful cause.
We look forward to several baby showers in May, which is a time to honor our blessed Mother Mary, Mother of God and Mother of the Church. St. Elizabeth held its second baby shower on May 5, and Holy Trinity will hold its second baby shower on May 19. In Waipio, Resurrection of the Lord’s first baby shower is planned for May 26.
Let us welcome all the new babies and bless all mothers and fathers for the gift of life.
If you would like more information on how to host a baby shower at your parish or donate to this program, please contact Sophia Catabran at St. Ann at (916) 889-6941 or the Respect Life Office at (808) 673-3074.
