Pregnant or parenting moms and families “in need” are in our parishes and our neighborhoods. As Pope Francis reminds us, our parishes need to be “islands of mercy in the midst of the sea of indifference.” Everyone in our parish community should know where to refer a pregnant mother in need.
In order to assess, expand, and better communicate resources to local pregnant moms and families, St. Francis and St. Clare parishes have joined a nationwide effort entitled:
“Walking with Moms in Need.”
Since May we have been praying together monthly at Mass and at home utilizing the “Prayer for Pregnant Mothers” prayer card along with the Monthly Prayer Guides.
In Phase 2, the Core Team spent a good deal of time gathering information about the resources available in our communities and the services provided.  We also took a look at our parishes to see what help we currently provide.  We have discussed ways that we can better communicate the help that is available.  And we are able to see where there are gaps in services.
We are now entering the next Phase of this initiative.  In Phase 3, we will begin to spread word on our websites about the wonderful ministries in our parishes and organizations in our area that are helping Moms (and others) in need.  We will list some new ministries/committees that we would like to form or those that already exist that could use more help.  You are invited to get involved as you feel called.
In anticipation of our celebration of our "Year of Service" to Moms in Need, we are planning a Community Baby Shower for June 3rd and would love to involve you!  Please see the flyer or our home page for more information, to sign up for this event and/or to donate requested items from our Wish List.

Our Baby Bottle Drive during Lent will help raise funds for this Shower.  And, for our Spiritual Adoption Birthday Celebration at the end of April, we will be asking for donations of "birthday" gifts for the newborn “spiritually adopted” babies whom we have been praying for.  These gifts will be offered as prizes for the new/expectant Moms at our Shower.
Your input and involvement are always welcomed!  Comment Cards are available in the church vestibules.  For more information, please contact Cil at [email protected] or 724-822-0614.
Thank you for your support and your continued prayers for our “walking” with Moms in Need efforts!!

To learn more about the nationwide initiative, visit www.walkingwithmoms.com.