Our Care for the Poor

I am inspired by the many ways our parishioners follow Jesus’ teaching about caring for the “hungry, thirsty, imprisoned, and the stranger.” I am especially grateful for those who serve in our St. Vincent De Paul and St. Louis de Marillac ministries and our Soup Kitchen ministry. Our monthly envelope (online giving) labeled “For Those In Need,” supports these outreach services for the poor, and I am so grateful to those of you who donate to these important causes.

Because of your generous donations to this envelope, we are able to help people who come to our office/church on a regular basis looking for food, a place to stay, or bills they cannot pay due to unemployment. Because of your donations to the poor, this week we were able to give an extra $1,000 to our center in East St. Louis for extra supplies they need during the summer months of extreme heat.

I especially want to acknowledge the leaders of our Soup Kitchen - Debbie Oitker, Jenny Vogt, Cathy Takacs & Kim Pierson. Thanks to them and the many volunteers who bring food and drinks for those who have so little. It is so important for us to stay close to the poor…who help us get to Heaven by reminding us to be generous with all God gives to us.

God’s Peace,
Fr. Jim Deiters