For the past few years, the mothers and fathers in crisis
pregnancy situations in the Warrenton area have been without a place to go for
pregnancy services that could tip the balance in their decision to choose life.
On Palm Sunday, a group of more than 80 guests including Catholics and members
of other Christian churches gathered to celebrate the blessing of the new
Warrenton Pregnancy Center March 25.
While the idea for the center originated from a group led by
Father Kevin J. Fimian, former parochial vicar at St. John the Evangelist
Church in Warrenton, its success has come as a result of prayer and tremendous
ecumenical support, according to organizers.
Protestant leaders from three churches were present at the
blessing, including Dennis Di Mauro, pastor of Trinity Lutheran in Warrenton;
Greg Hackett, lead pastor of the Bridge Community Church in Warrenton; and
Valanda Harris, minister from True Deliverance Ministries in Bealton.
“Being invited was a very big deal for us,” said Hackett, who did
a lot of pro-life work with his wife, Lisa, and church leaders in Indiana. “We
know we have our differences but we are united on the issue of life.”
Father James R. Gould, pastor of St. John the Evangelist, blessed
the 1,800-square-foot center that will provide parents in need with free
services such as pregnancy tests, counseling and ultrasounds.
The area has been lacking this type of pregnancy center since the
local branch of Care Net closed several years ago. Since then, the population
has grown along with the need for a pregnancy center.
“Even if we saved one baby’s life, that would be worth it,” said
Father Fimian.
After assembling the board, all members of the St. John the
Evangelist community, the group began meeting and praying together regularly
last June.
While the original goal was to sign a lease by the end of 2017,
it took longer to find the best location. They signed a lease for the corner
office on 400 Holiday Court on the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, Jan. 22.
The following weeks saw a flood of support that led to the speedy
renovation of the center, complete with flooring and furniture for the
counseling rooms — all donated.
They also received an examination table for their ultrasound room
from Divine Mercy Care and are working with the Knights of Columbus to raise
money for their own ultrasound machine.
Four registered nurses and five advocates counsel the mothers,
the fathers and other family members.
“We want to build healthy
families,” said Katherine Adams, executive director. “We want to build a
support network around them.”
The center is operating on a limited schedule Tuesdays from 10
a.m. to 4 p.m. and Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. while they continue to
renovate and build a volunteer base.
“The biggest thing right now is prayer,” said Father Fimian. “God
will provide.”
