In case you missed it, last month, St. John Nepomucene Catholic Community hosted a prayer service for our neighbors in need. Continue reading to learn how the readings and speakers helped change our perspective and how you can still contribute to the cause.
Our first reading was from the first letter of John and reminds us that love is more than words. It is:
Something we live.
Something we choose.
Something we give.
It challenges us to love not in word or speech, but in truth and action. But what does that really look like? What does it mean to truly see another person – not for their situation, not for their struggles, but for their dignity as a child of God?
Chris and Sarah Simon shared with us about recognizing the dignity in every person, and how we are called to love others in ways that are real, tangible and life-giving. They talked about the works that they have done with St. Joseph’s Parish in Appleton and about the impact that we are all making by working together with our homeless population by offering grace, compassion and mercy. They also shared that Providence Place Warming Shelter will be continuing the mission of Blessed Solanace Casey (BSC) and will open their doors this winter.
We then shared how Jesus tells the story of the Good Samaritan to challenge the way we see others. In the story, people pass by not because they are bad, but because they are busy…unsure…or afraid.
But one person stops.
One person sees.
One person chooses compassion.
And in that moment, everything changes for the one who is hurting. Tonight we are reminded that being “the neighbor” isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about being willing to notice, to care and to act with love.
Maria, a woman currently homeless, spoke as a witness to the a story of what it means to be seen, to be cared for, and to experience hope through the kindness of others. She has felt this deeply through the work being done through BSC (Blessed Solanace Casey) and St. Joseph’s Parish in Appleton Kiley, a 20 year old former resident at the Trinity house through VIDA, shared her story of how her life has been transformed. Her little one recently turned one, and she is living independently, working and finishing up her schooling to help others encountering addictions.
During this service we also had a collection for shoes to share with our neighbors in need. We reflected on walking in our neighbors shoes and received a small, smooth heart made to help us think of loving from our heart of compassion, mercy and grace as our Lord and Savior has shown us.
For more information and for ways to contribute to, below are links to both organizations.
You can also contact Amber Gloudemans to learn more.