I'm sure the decision to sign up for RCIA was a long time coming. RCIA, for those who might not be familiar with this acronym, stands for the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults. It is within RCIA that an un-baptized or baptized non-Catholic takes classes in a parish setting with the ultimate goal of joining the Catholic Church. In addition to individuals who intend to enter the Catholic Church, others attend the classes just to learn about the Catholic faith which sometimes leads to a conversion. The classes usually start in the fall and finish with those entering the Church at the Easter Vigil.
As an individual progressed through RCIA classes in one of the parishes in southern Nebraska, it came to the attention of her pastor that in addition to some serious medical issues, she was living without any heat. After learning of her situation, he suggested contacting Catholic Social Services. She now has heat and is up-to-date on her rent. With the involvement of one of our case managers, we will be able to help her gain back her independence. Imagine how hard it must have been studying about the Catholic faith in a cold apartment while counting down the days to homelessness.
Next month, Catholic Social Services will be celebrating its 80th birthday in the context of its annual Celebration of Caring Banquet which will be held at the Cornhusker Hotel on Sunday, Febr. 19. The social time begins at 4:30 p.m. and the dinner program at 6 p.m.
Catholic Social Services was started by Bishop Louis Kucera in the midst of the Great Depression, to help needy individuals and families. Imagine how hard it must have been to fundraise during those hard times. For the past 80 years, the people of Southern Nebraska have been helping needy families and individuals like the one mentioned above through the loving arms of Catholic Social Services. Last year, with the help of our benefactors, CSS has helped more than 20,000 people. It is a tremendous testimony of the loving and generous nature of our donors.
As many of you know each year we honor an individual or a group of individuals by giving them the Cor Christi award. This award is given to those whose works of charity are a reflection of the Heart of Christ. This year we will be honoring Ruth McKinstry and Don Steward. Ruth has been a long time volunteer for Matt Talbot and other agencies, including Catholic Social Services. Don has been a volunteer from the beginning at St. Louise Gift & Thrift Store and is responsible for the men’s clothing section. One glance at the department will tell you how dedicated he is. Both have given of themselves tirelessly for the love of Jesus Christ present in their neighbor.
I hope those who are able will join us at the banquet to help us thank Almighty God for His abundant blessings over the past 80 years. If not, please help us thank and ask Him through the powerful intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Joseph and the rest of the angels and saints that we will be able to continue fulfilling the mandate to love Jesus in the poor and needy (Mt 25:31-46). Let us also remember in our prayers, the countless clergy, religious, staff and volunteers of CSS who have died over the last 80 years. Finally, please never forget that we at Catholic Social Services will continue to keep you and your intentions in our prayers!!
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