Parishes, schools and other ministries completed more than 100 projects encompassing the corporal and spiritual works of mercy during the diocesan Week of Service Nov. 9-16.
In addition to many food and clothing drives, Christ the Redeemer Church in Sterling hosted a free dental clinic, St. James Church parishioners donated blood, and Nativity Catholic Church parishioners planted trees.
The initiative is an outgrowth of the Diocesan Strategic Plan and organizers chose the week leading up to the church’s World Day of the Poor established by Pope Francis.
“Our Week of Service was a special moment in the life of our diocese, where we have come together in imitation of Jesus and the care and compassion he extended, especially to those in most need,” Bishop Michael F. Burbidge said. “We are reminded of our responsibility as people of faith to grow by God’s grace as active participants in our communities, and by fulfilling our responsibility to serve our brothers and sisters through works of charity, we see how Christian love can transform every heart.”
“The Week of Service is a prelude of our hearts to the generosity of Thanksgiving and the Christmas season,” said Msgr. Robert C. Cilinski, diocesan episcopal vicar for charitable works and pastor of Nativity, who credited Popes Francis and Leo XIV for inspiring the efforts.
“One can only imagine the hope and encouragement that our efforts together will bring to those we are privileged to help. … We stand together in solidarity with all our brothers and sisters. No one is excluded from God’s love. In God’s eyes, we are all poor and needy.”
