SIMPSONVILLE — Bishop Robert J. Baker told St. Mary Magdalene parishioners that Sunday, Jan. 14, "was not ordinary time because of the gifts of the Knights of Columbus." Council 10189 had presented the parish with a statue of Jesus and children of the world, and Bishop Baker was there to dedicate this symbol for human life. Jesuit Father Herbert K. Conner, pastor, concelebrated.
Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus from Assemblies 1073 and 2505 provided an honor guard.
The bishop spoke of the previous day's Right to Life rally in Columbia and how people in the pro-life movement recognize and appreciate the contribution of the Catholic community.
Norma McCorvey, Jane Roe of the Roe vs. Wade Supreme Court case, spoke at the rally. Bishop Baker told of her 180-degree turn from being an advocate of abortion to being an outspoken proponent for life. He said, "She learned how much she was loved and cared for by those who were pro-life." McCorvey converted to Catholicism several years ago.
There were several newsworthy announcements before the final blessing. Bishop Baker praised the new capital campaign at St. Mary Magdalene as a sign of Catholic growth in the area. Father Conner announced that the parish had reached its Diocesan Development Fund goal for the first time ever, and then Bishop Baker announced that the diocese had likewise met its goal for the first time.