I’m sure that our benefactors wonder from time to time what happens to individuals and families we assist. Reading and hearing some of these stories is often moving.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of my assignment is traveling across southern Nebraska meeting and talking with those in need and our generous donors who make what we do possible. Sometimes this involves offering Masses at different parishes across the diocese. Recently, before Mass somewhere south of the Platte River, a young woman who appeared to be in her late twenties or early thirties wanted to say a few words to me before Mass. This is not unusual. When people want to talk before or after Mass, it could be about anything from, “Father, could you bless this rosary?” or “Father, could you hear my confession?” to the desire to talk about some personal matter while wanting some spiritual advice.
My impression was that she was not a Catholic. She asked, “Are you the Catholic Social Services guy?” “Why, yes I am!” I answered. “I just want to thank you for everything that you have done for me and my children! For the last five years you have helped me with toys for my kids.” “Did we help you again this last Christmas?” I asked. “No, because I have a good paying job now and did not want to take anything away from another mom who needed help” she retorted. She went on to explain that CSS had done much more for her over the last several years while she was unemployed in terms of emergency services (help with rent, utilities, etc.) and wanted to further elaborate but Mass was about to begin. After thanking me a dozen times, she asked how she could start giving back in terms of volunteering.
This reminded me of a young married man who came into one of our offices wanting to donate a car. When asked how he learned about our St. Christopher Car program, he answered, “Several years ago Catholic Social Services gave me a vehicle and I wanted to return the favor to someone else!” After signing the title of his car to CSS he merrily went on his way.
Yes, there are some of Christ’s poor who cannot seem to raise themselves out of the cycle of poverty. There are many reasons for this. We need to remind ourselves that like everyone else, they too are created in the image and likeness of God. But there are many others who do, returning to us thankful to God and to our donors, and wanting to become donors themselves.
That said, I am allowed yet another opportunity to thank the generous people of southern Nebraska for their love for Jesus Christ, who lives in the poor and needy, which is manifested by their generosity. You are making a difference in the lives of many. When they thank me they are thanking you, and they want me to relay their thankfulness.
Please know that in addition to relaying the gratitude of these former clients, we at Catholic Social Services will keep you, your family and intentions in our prayers as we routinely pray for you every morning at 8:30.
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