Messages that were life-giving and filled with hope were conveyed during the Knights of Columbus Central New Jersey Centennial Chapter’s 14th annual Pro-Life Baby Shower held on Divine Mercy Sunday, April 27, in St. Gregory the Great Parish Center, Hamilton Square.

More than 130 people gathered to show their support for life – from conception to natural death – and hear riveting speeches that were given by representatives from Several Sources Shelter and Interfaith Caregivers of Greater Mercer County. Among those in attendance were Msgr. James Innocenzi, pastor of St. George Parish, Titusville, and chapter chaplain; clergy from St. Gregory the Great Parish and representatives of the Centennial Chapter, as well as members of other Knights of Columbus councils, and families who have been served by Several Sources Shelters, a New Jersey-based ministry that provides shelter to homeless single mothers and their children.

The representatives from Several Sources Shelters recounted how the pro-life organization was founded 33 years ago by Kathy DiFiore. In 1981, DiFiore had to escape an abusive marriage, an experience which left her homeless. Once she was back on her feet, with a new home and employment, she was led to begin her ministry to homeless, single mothers. Several Sources presently operates three shelters and recently launched the Gift of Hope Sonogram Center in Englewood, which provides free sonograms that are performed by equipment that had been donated by the Knights of Columbus. Free counseling is also offered.

Jane Latini, executive director of Interfaith Caregivers of Greater Mercer County, talked about ways in which the organization serves the elderly and disabled. Interfaith Caregivers of Greater Mercer County is part of a national network, serving many parishes in the county.