Connecting with the Homebound

As an E-Team member I make monthly reminder calls to our prayer warriors who have committed to Pray for the Pastor Daily for two months out of each year.  At times I only reach a voicemail and leave a thank you message from Father Benny for their powerful past prayers along with the reminder they will begin their next month soon.  Other times I have a chance to chat with one of our parishioners.

Recently I was privileged to talk with one of the original parishioners of Saint Thomas the Apostle Church.  She and her family attended the very first Mass on October 17, 1954 in the basement of the local hardware store a few blocks down on Stillwater Avenue.  Her vivid memory of that event, over 66 years ago, was so special.  At St. Thomas the  Apostle's first Mass her husband, whose name was Thomas, was asked to serve as an usher.  Their son, Thomas Jr. was baptized by the celebrant and Pastor Thomas Robertson. She cherishes that day and many other memories this community has shared with her and her family. I learned she doesn't drive anymore so isn't able to "come back" and join us at Mass.

She did not need my call to remind her to pray!  While we talked I was able to assist her with the opportunity to have her family added to the petitions for that weeks Healing Mass and ideally filled a small part of a lonely day.  Let's all consider the blessings we will receive by reaching out to an isolated neighbor, relative or fellow parishioner and to remember them in your prayers. Healing God, we pray especially who those who are isolated, that they may know your love. Stay by their side in this time of uncertainty and sorrow.