The Catholic Charities’ Center for Adoption Services was
founded in 1947. Over the years, the office leased space at
various locations in Arlington, finally moving to Burke in
1986.
In November, the office moved to new space in Fairfax on Old
Lee Highway near Fairfax Circle and has been renamed
Pregnancy and Adoption Support. Although they’ve been
providing adoption and pregnancy services at the new location
for months, the center celebrated the new space with a
blessing by Arlington Bishop Paul S. Loverde and a small
reception for about 40 supporters and staff April 11.
Bishop Loverde walked through the office sprinkling holy
water. He was assisted by Francis Xavier “FX” Giaccio, an
altar server at St. James Church in Falls Church.
In his remarks, the bishop quoted Pope Francis who said, “I
see the church as a field hospital after battle.”
The bishop called the Charities office a field hospital where
those who need healing will find it.
Kim Harrell, program director, said that the new space is at
a better location for access by Metro and is easier to find.
She said that she is excited about the new opportunities
available at this new location.
“If you are looking to see God’s hand, this is the place to
go,” said Harrell.
Art Bennett, CEO and president of Catholic Charities, said
the space is superior to the old Burke location for a variety
of reasons, and the lease is less expensive.
“Nicer and cheaper is great,” said Bennett.
He called the office “a comfortable place for people to
come.”
The new office space is a dramatic change from the Burke
location. The fourth-floor suite has a roomy waiting area and
attractive meeting rooms with panoramic views of Fairfax. It
was chosen for just that reason.
“It shows (the clients) that they’re getting the best care
possible,” said Father Robert C. Cilinski, pastor of the
Church of the Nativity in Burke, and a member of the Catholic
Charities board of directors.
Father Cilinski said the new office space reinforces the
dignity of their clients.
The office also will serve clients from Family Services
Counseling and the Unaccompanied Minors Programs, which
provides care and placement for children who come into the
United States from other countries without an adult guardian.
