CHARLOTTE — In its first parish-wide “Morning of Service,” St. Gabriel Church parishioners spread out across Charlotte on a recent Saturday in August serving their neighbors in need.
More than 120 people provided a combined 290 hours of service at eight agencies that the parish supports. The event was part of the parish’s ongoing commitment to “Caring for Charlotte,” its response to the city’s economic mobility crisis.
Participants ranged in age from preschoolers to retirees, sorting clothes at Crisis Assistance Ministry, making breakfast at The Relatives Youth Crisis Center, and serving lunch at the Urban Ministry Center.
Others helped process donations at Habitat Restore, distributed food at a Loaves and Fishes pop-up food share, beautified flower beds at Cochrane Academy, played games with children at the Salvation Army Center of Hope, and picked up trash at Eastover Park. Many who could not attend also baked cookies or donated school supplies and new backpacks to families in crisis.
Karen Brown, St. Gabriel Ministry volunteer coordinator, noted, “We were delighted to have so many people participate who were first time volunteers at these organizations.
Offering a morning of service gave parishioners an opportunity to do something they may not normal-ly be able to do. By serving our most vulnerable neighbors, we come away with a greater appreciation for how significant their needs are and how we can make a difference. We all have a part to play.”
— Photos provided by Darby McClatchy
