ELKIN — Families with children in faith formation at St. Stephen Mission in Elkin recently learned first-hand about Catholic social justice and living the Gospel when they visited and made donations to Tri-County Christian Crisis Ministry, located in Elkin.
Parishioner Bill Bresse gave them a tour and explained the importance of giving to Tri-County Christian Crisis Ministry and helping our sisters and brothers in need.
— Sister Janis McQuade, SSJ
HENDERSONVILLE — Immaculate Conception Church parishioners responded generously to this year’s Christmas Gifts program, which assists five different regional agencies in helping some 600 Henderson County area men, woman and children have a more joyful Christmas.
Dozens took part in the weekend of Nov. 17-18 solicitation by selecting a child’s or adult’s request as printed on labels, many choosing more than one person. The labels were then affixed to the wrapped gifts parishioners buy and the gifts were displayed on the steps of the sanctuary at Masses Dec. 1-2 before being delivered to the regional agencies for their distribution.
“The generosity of our parish members is amazing and so appreciated by those we help,” said Capuchin Franciscan Father Martin Schratz, pastor. “It really shines through as the true spirit of the holidays.”
The program was coordinated by parishioner Jo Ann Kelly, assisted by many volunteers.
— Sid Baker