By Father Christopher Kubat
A few days ago, a woman called me to thank us. She said if it was not for Catholic Social Services, she would not have been able to escape a man who abused her for more than 30 years.
I, in turn, must thank all of our supporters, for without your help, we would not have been able to help her.
When the woman left the abusive situation, she did so despite this man hiding the keys to her car. After suggesting she contact the local sheriff’s department, they met her at her old place of residence and helped her retrieve her car. After some financial and material help, she is now living safely in a new home. Since she was literally starting over, we helped her furnish her new residence and put her new kitchen in order with donated items.
I am excited to announce that Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska is holding its 31st annual “Celebration of Caring” banquet Sunday, Feb. 18. It will be held at a new location this year – at the Embassy Suites (located at 1040 P Street in Lincoln). The social time starts at 4:30 p.m. and the dinner/program at 6 p.m.
A lot has changed since CSS was started by Bishop Kucera in the year 1932, but one constant has not changed or will ever change: the people supporting CSS do so because of their love of Jesus Christ and His presence in the poor and needy. Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of my brethren, you did it to me”(Mt 25:40).
As in prior years, during the dinner portion of the evening I will be delivering the ‘state of the agency’ report, during which we highlight what has been done during the past year because of the generosity of our donors.
The financial support of the faithful is important because other than the money that funds our refugee department, CSS does not accept any governmental funds, and relies on the generosity of our supporters. It is truly amazing what we have accomplished over the past year because of the love of our benefactors.
This year, Tom and Rhonda Peed will be the recipients of the Cor Christi Award. Cor Christi means ‘the Heart of Christ.’ This award is given annually to an individual or individuals whose love for their neighbors reflect the love burning in the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Like prior recipients, Tom and Rhonda certainly fit this bill!
I pray you are able to join us this year but if not, please pray for good weather and success of this year’s banquet. Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us!
