“I WISH I COULD BE A MEMBER OF YOUR PARISH.”
I recently heard that compliment from a volunteer medical professional, as she was leaving St. Mary’s Health Clinic. She’s among the many who volunteer here every Wednesday.
She went on, “You’re always helping people.” She was referring not only to St. Mary’s free clinic, but also to Loaves and Fishes, Casa Guadalupana, the free mental health clinic starting up at St. Matt’s, and other ministries here.
In talking to this dedicated volunteer, I learned that she belongs to a suburban Catholic parish. She’s an active, supportive member of that community, yet she sounded wistful when she compared her parish to ours.
Her compliment to St. Matt’s reminded me of a comment from Fr. Steve, that “One’s creed is found in what one does.” It’s clear to me that a major part of our creed is to be caring, especially regarding the poor. As Fr. Steve has preached, love involves more than words. Love includes the doing of good things.
HOSPITALITY
One way we care for people is to be hospitable. How do we do that on a personal level?
I think hospitality is a skill anyone can develop. Anyone can smile, say “Hello. Good morning (evening)” before Mass, or simply, “How can I help you?”
(I recognize that the skill of greeting people is easier for some than others. If that’s you, please consider adding your name to our list of greeters at Mass.)
Hospitality also has institutional elements. For example, our church’s official teachings (the Bible, Vatican II, Pope Francis’s encyclicals) tell us to welcome the stranger. Jesus is present in everyone.
COMMONWEAL MAGAZINE
Several parishioners have expressed interest in forming a group to discuss articles found in Commonweal magazine. Let me know if you’d like to join the group. All are welcome.
CONTRIBUTION METHODS
• Envelopes or cash in the collections at Mass. Because of the importance of maintaining our buildings, we’ve added a Capital Needs envelope to the bimonthly packets and at the back of the church.
• Electronic Funds Transfers (EFTs). This system simplifies giving for many people, as it enables monthly contributions without needing to write a check. You can also direct contributions to our Capital Needs fund and/or Community of Saints School, in addition to regular operational support. Approximately 20% of our regular contributors already use EFTs. Call or email me for more information.
• PayPal. We use this platform mostly for Men’s Club activities, though it is possible to donate directly to the parish.
• All donations to the Church of St. Matthew are tax deductible
Thank you for your support, and have a great week!
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