Social
Ministry |
| Social Ministry has been a vital part of
St. John Neumann since the founding of the parish. This year, the Social
Concerns Committee celebrates 23 years of service to
persons in need. Through their efforts, the parish community
attempts to live out the commandment to love one another.
As you can see by the activities listed below, we are very active in our Social Ministry and we are proud of what we have accomplished over the years since the founding of the parish. None of this would be possible, though, without the generosity of our parishioners. Please take the time to consider helping us in any way that you can. |
Blood
Drive
|
St. John's Blood Drive is set it up semi-annually with the Red Cross, specifically timed to fall in the summer and winter when shortages are greatest. Volunteers assist with setup, hosting, cleanup and coordinating. Our goal is to reach and maintain a good level of donations (35-40 target). Mary Beth Meade coordinates this program, 908-832-0253 or email califonmeade@comcast.net
Receiving a card during a crisis lets those who are suffering know that the church community is thinking about them. Sympathy cards and get-well wishes are sent regularly to parishioners. Cards are also sent to families who have had a child baptized and to those newly married at St. John's. Liz Livoti coordinates this ministry, phone 908-439-2490 or email ldlivoti@juno.com.
Food Pantry and Distribution Ministry
A food pantry is maintained in the Church Center, through the generous donations of our parishioners. This pantry is used for emergencies and also four times during the year when we distribute groceries to approximately 30 individuals and families in the area. The families of the parish keep the pantry organized and keep us apprised of our needs. This is an area where we need volunteers to shop, pack, and deliver the food. Pam Dean, coordinates this ministry, 908-730-7764 or email ddlesmom@yahoo.net or Earl at 832-2262 or email earlroberts@earthlink.net if you can help or if you know of someone in need. We also support NORWESCAP and Open Cupboard Food Pantry - High Bridge with donations of food and money.
Four times a year our tree in the Narthex blooms with gift tags requesting items needed by people in difficult situations. Over the years parishioners have purchased items or gift certificates for homeless persons, hospitalized and institutionalized adults and children; baby items for pregnancy centers; and items for families in our neighborhoods who cannot afford basic needs. Pam Dean currently coordinates this work and is part of Social Ministry directed by Earl Roberts, Pastoral Assistant, 832-2262.
This ministry reaches out to fulfill the needs of persons in the area unable to cope with serious illness, old age or disabilities. Eucharist is brought on a regular basis to these individuals and also to the residents of the Nursing Home. Earl Roberts, 832-2262, also does scheduling of these visits.
SHIP
We are also involved with SHIP, a soup kitchen in Somerville. Once a month a group from the parish goes to help serve food to the homeless. We also prepare meals to take with us. Anne Germino, 439-9335 heads this project. Any help you can give to Anne would be welcome.
Once a month a group of parishioners visits the Little Brook Nursing Home here in Califon. They provide entertainment and refreshments for the residents. Children are always a welcome part of these visits. In addition, each Spring a picnic is held at the Church Center in their honor. Nancy Dubeau has taken care of this ministry for years. If interested, call her at 832-7548.
This Ministry supports the Pregnancy Aid Center and residences for expectant mothers. The Parish Pro-Life ministry also participates in diocesan activities in support of the unborn, infirm, elderly, and terminally ill. At the present time, Thomas & Rosary Gilheany handle this ministry.
Please pray for and drop your donation in the Jar at the Social Ministry Station. Our community has committed to a minimum of $29/month to sponsor Angel Cerdena, 12 who lives in the Philippines. This work is carried out through the Christian Foundation for Children and Aging. This ministry work is handled by Earl Roberts, pastoral assistant.
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This page last edited on
07/11/07