Good evening, my brothers in Christ - my name is Dolores Ramirez from St. John Paul the Great Parish - from Torrington. In these moments of uncertainty and fear our parish priests, enlightened by divine charity and in conjunction with the Office for Catholic Social Ministry of the Archdioceses of Hartford, Virtual Parish Social Ministry team, our parish evangelization ministry, the John XXIII movement, Kevin's place and other non-profit agencies have been accompanying our community, both spiritually and materially. Strengthening each other in faith, hope, and love towards our Lord God. As soon as we learned of some cases that afflicted our parishioners and ministers, we united as a community to help these families. A case that touched us closely was that of our usher minister, who had the virus in advanced condition and was staying alone at home. We got in touch and immediately acted, bringing him food, money, and medicine. We also entrust him into the hands of God through our Prayers, virtual masses, and holy rosaries. Three more families found themselves in a similar situation in which we assisted them in the same way. As the days went by, through to the Virtual archdiocesan parish social ministry Social team meetings, in the person of Arturo and Anita, we received information of help and hope, which we distributed electronically to more than 150 people in the parish. Also, through them and with the support of the parish, we obtained financial assistance of approximately $3,000 for three undocumented families who needed to pay the rent for their apartments. Divine providence was merciful and kind to us as it protected us with the donations that we received over the days. We obtained cash donations of $3,000, which were distributed equally through gift cards. In addition, we received information on the times where food donations were being made, which were sent to the community immediately. We identified many families who did not have transportation, they received help from the staff in order to arrive where the food donations were being held at the time. This way, our most vulnerable families have faith and hope to put a plate of food on their tables. Some individuals helped us supply clothing and household utensils to immigrants and undocumented families who recently arrived in the community. A local aid agency has been in contact with us in recent months. They have been granting us gift cards worth $200 to $400 for families of undocumented immigrants and includes families that belong to our parish. Over the next few days, they will generate more aid that will help these families pay their apartments rent. Our list in the parish of families in high need is about 20. Giving talent, service, and time to others is our priority. The proclamation of the Gospel teaches man, in the name of Christ, his own dignity and the demands of justice and peace according to divine wisdom. This is not over yet and we will continue to embrace the cross of Christ in order to help Christians. We thank God, the members present here, especially our guide Arturo Iriarte, our Pastors, Father Emmanuel, Father Mauricio, and all the people in the community who give life to the second commandment: Love your neighbor, as yourself. (Matthew 22:39). Blessings to all.
RSS Feed