A heartwarming incident took place outside St. Paul Cathedral in Yakima, Washington, where a Catholic priest, Rev. Jesús Mariscal, helped deliver twin baby boys to a homeless woman. The priest, who had stepped out to buy doughnuts for an engaged couple, heard the woman’s cries for help and immediately sprang into action.
The pregnant woman, who remains unidentified, shouted in pain outside the cathedral, alerting Rev. Mariscal to her distress. Upon approaching her, he noticed blood at her feet and realized she was about to give birth. Acting swiftly, he dialed 911 and put the call on speaker to receive instructions on how to assist with the delivery.
Within moments, the woman gave birth to her first son. However, to everyone’s surprise, she announced that another baby was on the way. The priest followed the 911 operator’s guidance and helped deliver the second baby, who was still enclosed in the amniotic sac. Despite initial concerns about the baby’s unresponsiveness and the umbilical cord wrapped around his neck, Rev. Mariscal successfully revived the child by tapping his back and turning him to his side.
The mother, both premature babies, and Rev. Mariscal were subsequently taken to a local hospital, where they received medical care. Fortunately, the family is now doing well, and the priest even visited them during their hospital stay.
Rev. Mariscal’s extraordinary act of kindness has drawn attention to the prevalent issue of homelessness in Washington state. Bishop Joseph J. Tyson expressed hope that this incident would raise awareness about the political and social conditions surrounding homelessness. Homelessness rates in the state have been on the rise, with over 25,000 people considered homeless in a single night in January 2021, a 10% increase from the previous year.
The bishop emphasized the Catholic Church’s commitment to addressing poverty and supporting marginalized communities. He quoted the 2017 pastoral letter on poverty, “Who is Our Neighbor,” stressing the importance of journeying with those in need and advocating for solutions to their challenges.
Rev. Mariscal, humbled by the experience, sees the newborns and their mother as embodiments of God’s love. He believes that they, along with others on the fringes of society, are the individuals who require the community’s service and love.
This heartwarming story serves as a reminder of the compassion and selflessness that can be found in unexpected places. It also sheds light on the urgent need to address homelessness and support vulnerable populations in Washington state and beyond.
