Around 600 years ago, a young, well-to-do mother, in a span of several years, lost her two sons to the plague, and later her husband, as well. I am sure she was tempted by the evil one to become angry with God.
What did she do? She teamed up with her sister-in-law and opened a hospital with their personal funds (later a religious order dedicated to helping those in need). Her name is St. Frances of Rome and her feast day was March 9.
Now, many years later, women in the Church still dedicate themselves to helping the Church and the poor- either formally through altar societies or informally with groups such as The Giving Group. This particular group was started by Rita Antonson from St. Joseph Parish in Lincoln four years ago. There are currently 20 members who donate money each month in order to assist a local charity. Laura Schumacher, one of the members, recently reached out to us after St. Gianna’s Women’s Home was chosen to be the latest recipient. We were happy to accept.
After meeting at Gianna’s Java & Gelato, and saying a prayer in our St. Joseph’s Chapel, I gave the ladies a tour, after which they made 30 Easter baskets for the children at St. Gianna’s. Now each child at St. Gianna’s will have a beautiful Easter basket on Easter Sunday.
As we get ready to celebrate the Easter Triduum, marking the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, the ultimate victory over sin and death, let us imitate St. Frances of Rome and not let our crosses drag us down but use them as a path to the glory of our own resurrection on the last day.
I would like to thank the ladies of The Giving Group as well as all of our benefactors who do so much for Jesus who lives in the poor and needy. Please know that we at Catholic Social Services are praying for you during this most holy time of year. St. Frances of Rome, pray for us!
