In their document titled “Communities of Salt and Light: Reflections on the Social Mission of the Parish” the American Bishops emphasize the importance of Social Ministry. It states,
” ‘Parish Social Ministry’ is first and foremost a work of faith. Social Ministry is an
expression of who we are and what we believe; it is anchored in the Scriptures and
Church Teaching. It is part of what keeps a parish alive and makes it truly Catholic.
Social Ministry helps the parish not only to do more, but to be more – more a reflection
of the Gospel, more a worshipping and evangelizing people, more of a faithful community.
It is an essential part of parish life. “
In our diverse community, we find those blessed with many resources and those burdened with many hardships. As Disciples of Christ, it is our duty to care for one another spiritually, emotionally and physically. The office of Social Ministry seeks to identify needs within the community and provide opportunities for our parishioners to help meet those needs in a way that is respectful of those served. Social Ministry is not simply a benevolent venture, but the responsibility of parishioners as the calling comes directly from Christ’s teachings.
In addition to the responsibility to coordinate the outreach activities of the parish, the Social Ministry Coordinator provides support, guidance and encouragement to families and individuals facing difficulties meeting the basic needs of family life. All inquiries are confidential.
“Faith without works is dead.” James 2:17 This does not mean that faith without works is pointless, but that true faith requires effort and sacrifice. Charitable assistance, in any form, is at the core of a living faith. Social Ministry provides our parish with the opportunity to live our faith, and radiate the love and light of our Lord Jesus Christ on the altar of our lives. Social Ministry in our Parish provides multiple opportunities to do so. We invite you to explore the ministries listed.
Please take some time to read about our various endeavors, reflect and pray about where the Lord may be calling you to serve.
Back Pack Collection ~ Donated backpacks and school supplies are distributed to those in need. Volunteers are needed to sort and deliver back packs.
Charitable Assistance Committee ~ Provide counseling and financial support for those in crisis. Volunteers are needed to act as counselors to those in need. The fund is dependent on donations from our parishioners.
Coat Drive ~ Outerwear is collected beginning on Mission Sunday to distribute to those in need. We conclude our drive by giving out the items with the Thanksgiving baskets.
Friendly Visitors ~ Individuals visit homebound and or senior parishioners. Greeting cards and small gifts are distributed at specific times during the year.
Jesse Wish Tree ~ Parishioners have the opportunity during advent to help those less fortunate have a pleasant Christmas by providing gifts. The Jesse tree is decorated with tags bearing the needed item. Items need to be returned with tag, unwrapped by the date listed.
New Connections Ministry ~ Volunteers contact new parishioners to welcome them to our parish and answer any questions that they may have.
Non-Perishable Foods ~ Parishioners can donate goods to be distributed to those in need in our community.
Thanksgiving Baskets Collection ~ Parishioners donate food in a Thanksgiving theme. The Friday before Thanksgiving volunteers meet to sort the food, shop for fill ins and deliver to our neighbors and local shelters.