 For parishioners who, at another time in their lives, were able to be more active but are now confined to home due to illness or advanced age, our parish reaches out in a number of ways. It is my joy to be involved, and I feel blessed to minister to these parishioners and to work with the many volunteers who serve our homebound with such love and care.
There are phone calls, letters and cheery cards home, friendly visits and especially the visits of our dedicated parishioners who bring the Eucharist to those who can no longer join the parish for Mass on a weekly basis. Twice during the year, in the Spring and Fall, we celebrate the Sacrament of the Anointing for the Sick during Mass at a time convenient for our homebound members.
The priests of the parish and I visit hospitals, nursing homes and rehab centers, bringing care, concern and the prayers of our parish community to those away from home.
At Christmas and Easter, teams of volunteers prepare, wrap and deliver gifts to all on our homebound list. (Please help us keep our list current by letting us know if a family member becomes unable to get about and is confined to home.) None of these activities could happen without these wonderful volunteers, including our school children who make pictures and ornaments to be given as gifts! I am humbled by such goodness and generosity and I thank all involved so much.
Ah, but, these gifts of time and talent do not go unrewarded! Many of our homebound pray in a special way for the needs of our parish and keep many special intentions in prayer for us!
At times, a family is looking for information regarding alternative living facilities or perhaps, some forms of assistance at home for their loved one. The parish has information which might be of help to you and we would be happy to direct you to such sources.
We invite our parishioners to consider being involved in any of the above outreach services - or any others which your creativity suggests! Just call the Friary and we will be happy to have you be a part of this wonderful ministry. The more generous the volunteers - - the more we can bring joy to others! And, at the end of the day, you can't help but know the satisfaction and joy YOU experience by serving others!
Always, I thank you for your prayers and your efforts in bringing the love of this parish to others.
Peace and All Good!
- Sr. Marigene, osf
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