Photo by Alison Girone
A national pro-life advocacy group is echoing the message Pope Leo XIV gave this week commending the Knights of Columbus for its work supporting pregnant mothers and unborn children.
“The Knights of Columbus have been unwavering in their support for the pro-life movement, and the work of over 2,700 pregnancy help centers across the United States,” National Right to Life President Carol Tobias said in an Aug. 5 statement. “We join Pope Leo XIV in commending the work of the Knights of Columbus and their consistent, steadfast dedication to protecting the lives of the most vulnerable among us.”
The KofC, which has more than 2.1 million members worldwide, operates a number of pro-family initiatives, such as providing funding for ultrasound machines. According to its website, since 2009, the organization had funded more than 1,500 ultrasound machines, enabling more than one million expectant mothers to see their unborn children. In 2023, the KofC reached 342,000 volunteer hours participating in pro-life community service such as conducting baby and maternity item drives, according to its website, which also states that the same year, they donated $5.7 million the same year to support women and children.
This week, the organization’s members are convening in Washington, DC, and virtually for the 143rd Annual Supreme Convention. At the beginning of the event, they received a special video message from Pope Leo, as CatholicVote previously reported.
“This year’s Convention has the timely theme of ‘Heralds of Hope,’ reminding all Knights of Columbus of the invitation to be signs of hope in your local communities, parishes, and families,” Pope Leo said in the message. “In this regard, I commend your efforts to bring together men in your communities for prayer, formation, and fraternity, as well as the many charitable efforts of your local Councils throughout the world.”
“In particular,” he added, “your generous service to vulnerable populations, including the unborn, pregnant mothers, children, those who are less fortunate, and those affected by the scourge of war, brings hope and healing to many and continues the noble legacy of your founder.”
KofC’s founder was an American Catholic priest who is now on the path to sainthood: Blessed Michael McGivney. He started the organization in 1882 in New Haven, Connecticut, when he convened a small group of parish laymen to serve their communities.
In her Aug. 5 statement, Tobias reiterated Pope Leo’s support of the global group: “We praise the Knights of Columbus for their extensive efforts to help women and their preborn babies.”