Dear Fellow Parishioners, Who is my neighbor? Who is my family? On this Feast of the Holy Family, I thank God for all of you who have answered the call to be neighbor and family to the least, the lost, and the last! The generous outpouring of groceries for the food pantry, gift cards, sheets, towels, sweat clothes, diapers and wipes, and monetary contributions to the virtual giving tree has been a wonderful testimony to our understanding of the Gospel here in the Catholic Community of Sacred Heart. Several people have continued to let it be known that if more was needed, just let them know and they are more than happy to help. How good it that?!
Food insecurity, housing insecurity continue to rise as families lose jobs and assistance during this pandemic. Being part of the safety net provides some assistance for our brothers and sisters who have nowhere else to turn. The needs are deep and wide and are exacerbated in the winter months. May we continue to be attentive to the needs as they are presented to the charitable agencies assisting in our name.
Catholic Charities, the Daily Food Pantry, and St. Vincent de Paul are in regular contact with us to alert us to the needs that come to their attention. The Haiti communicates monthly with Fr. Elysee at St. Gerard’s Parish. As we enter this new year, we will continue to keep you posted on the needs that are brought to our attention so that no one falls through the cracks.
It is never easy for people to ask for assistance. I am asking us all to keep our eyes open to those who may have needs and are not asking for help. Be their voice and let us know how we can assist those in need and point them in the right direction to the resources that available.
Who is my neighbor? Who is my family? We are all on this journey together! Thanks for such a wonderful and generous response to our brothers and sisters who need a helping hand!