B Y EIL EEN C ONNEL L Y, OS U
Mater Filius New respect life ministry goes the extra mile to help expectant moms in crisis pregnancies with housing, job training, education, workshops and emotional support.
A modest home on Cincinnati’s West Side will soon provide a safe haven for expectant mothers in need, along with a variety of services to help them recognize the blessings their children are and that they are not alone on their journeys. Mater Filius (Latin for “Mother and Son”) was founded in 2003 in Mexico by Miriam and José Tejeda. When Miriam, a longtime counselor for teenagers and married couples, developed a lifethreatening neurological disorder, she received the sacrament of reconciliation for the first time in many years. In critical condition after surgery at a Houston hospital, Miriam experienced a vision of the Blessed Mother, who gave her a pro-life mission. The plans for Mater Filius were in place before Miriam left the hospital. FROM MEXICO TO CINCINNATI
Maria Resendiz, a member of St. Gertrude Parish in Madeira, brought the apostolate to Cincinnati after learning about it on a trip to Mexico. She went on to recruit a prayer team, including Deacon Henry and Betsy Jacquez, who now serve as the directors of Mater Filius Queen City on a volunteer basis. In addition, to the Cincinnati apostolate, there are currently Mater Filius residences in Omaha, Miami and Dallas, with others under development. Both the Jaquezes say there was much prayer and discernment before taking on their roles, since they were essentially retired. But, they share a dedication to respect life ministry and a deep devotion to the Blessed Mother. Henry was ordained to the diaconate in 2013 and serves at Holy Trinity Parish in Norwood. Betsy is retired from Cincinnati 8 | FEAT URE
