Dear Brother Knights,

Last month, we celebrated life by participating in the Mass of Reparation at St. Justin’s Church. All collections were donated to the St. Juan Diego Women Center in San Jose.

The St. Juan Diego Society Women's Center is a Catholic crisis pregnancy center located on the front lines of the pro-life battle: right in between a high school and a Planned Parenthood clinic. It was formed in 1986 through the inspiration of Monsignor Sweeny, former pastor of Our Lady of Peace. Over the last 24 years it has performed more than 6,500 pregnancy tests, thousands of counseling sessions, provided untold baby item material aid, and by the Grace of God, it has been instrumental in saving over 650 babies.

I would like to paraphrase the words of Brother Knight John Wilhelmsson, Board member of the St. Juan Diego Society who described why their Women's Center is a ministry which reflects the ideals of the Knights of Columbus.

First, it is 100% Catholic, pro-Magisterium, pro-Holy Father, and therefore, pro-life. They do not hide the fact that they are Catholic or the teachings of the Church but “Speak the truth in Love” in the context of a warm family-like atmosphere to those who come for help. Second, it is 100% Marian and under the maternal protection of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Patroness of the Unborn, and Mother of the Civilization of Love. Finally, the traditional role of a Knight is to protect and serve the most innocent, weak, and vulnerable members of society. There is nobody more innocent, weak, and vulnerable than an unborn baby – worthy of a Knight’s protection.

Along with Brother Wilhelmsson, I ask everyone to pray-fully consider being involved in the ministry of the St. Juan Diego Society Women's Center all year round. Because it is a ministry fit for a Knight.

Vivat Jesus!

SK Rafael Betancourt, GK