The Gabriel Project: Serving Mothers And Families In Need

As Catholics, we are no doubt familiar with the Annunciation, when the angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would become the mother of Jesus. Much as Gabriel visited Mary to bring her this Good News, the members of our Gabriel Project ministry — known as “angels” — visit local mothers in their time of need.

But instead of delivering a message, our angels provide car rides to doctor visits; bring essential supplies like diapers, car seats, or baby clothing; and offer emotional support. They also act as a referral resource to other forms of assistance. However, the most important part of their work is the prayers they offer for those in need.

“Angels act to promote life and act as helpers to get moms and families through difficult times,” says Gregg Gilles, who helps coordinate this ministry with Carolyn Albers.

“For example, we had a mother who had to be taken by ambulance to the hospital to deliver, so we went and brought her car seat to the hospital for her,” Carolyn says. The Gabriel Project is coordinated through individual dioceses — other parishes both in the area and throughout the United States, have Gabriel Project teams. The angels of the Gabriel Project are connected to mothers in need through referrals from the Gabriel Project referral number at 800-910-0191. Mothers are then matched with a Gabriel Project program near their home.

“Often, everything is in crisis for these mothers,” Gregg says. “We are here to intervene, settle the situation, and be happy for the new life.”

Sometimes, the mothers just need someone to talk to and give them support — so the angels serve that need, as well. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, angels even hosted several baby showers to help mothers with needed items for a new baby.

Mike and Anna Ranco got this ministry started at Our Lady of the Assumption. Gregg and Carolyn both say they heard “the call” to get involved, and their involvement with this ministry has been very rewarding.

“We get to share in the joy of a new baby,” Gregg says.

Gregg and Carolyn extend their gratitude to Fr. Eduino Silveira for his support of this work, even offering an area of his garage for storage of donated items.

“Without the support of Fr. Eduino, we couldn’t do this,” Gregg says. “He is the champion for life. Also, the people of OLA are incredibly generous in responding to the need for baby supplies.”

The ministry members also work hand-in-hand with the Sacramento Life Center, which offers resources for medical and ultrasound, and can help with referrals for other needs. They also have clothes and other baby supplies.

Carolyn and Gregg feel grateful to be a part of this work. They want to make sure they can help any mom or family, whatever the need, big or small.

“How do you support someone better than supporting a mom?” Gregg says.

“We want moms to know the sanctity of life, and that every baby is a blessing, no matter what the circumstances,” Carolyn says. “I want them to know they have some support and people that do care. It’s a simple thing to support someone who needs a helping hand.” Angels provide car rides to doctor visits; bring essential supplies like diapers, car seats, or baby clothing; and offer emotional support.

Gabriel Project “angels” provide help with the goal of supporting families in their time of need.

Volunteers with the Gabriel Project shower local families with gifts for their new baby.