Outreach and Social Justice Ministries
This past week, the Outreach and Social Justice ministry leaders gathered to reflect on — and celebrate — the many ways St. Thomas serves our neighbors through outreach and social justice. Each ministry was invited to share one highlight from the past year. Here is what they shared:
- Respect Life: The generosity of St. Thomas parishioners in donating supplies for the Swaddling Project collection.
- St. Vincent de Paul: The number of people served and the compassion of SVdP volunteers.
- DuPage United: Dedicated St. Thomas parishioners working for changes in DuPage County that help and protect the vulnerable.
- Couriers of Compassion: 17 volunteers currently writing to incarcerated individuals (including four new volunteers).
- PATH (Jobs Ministry): 50 people participated in the most recent Zoom Jobs Ministry meeting.
- Transitional Housing: The family St. Thomas is currently sponsoring is set to graduate from the program in August — with a better job, a better credit score and a stronger position to support themselves.
- Habitat for Humanity: A 38-year relationship with Mississippi Habitat, offering an immersive educational experience and a deeper understanding of the challenges facing the working poor.
- Inclusive Justice Initiative: A recent Mass for healing and hope, along with recent listening sessions.
- Care for Creation: Season of Creation pilgrimages were held last September.
- Pax Christi: The St. Thomas peace vigil held at Pope Leo’s request for prayers for world peace.
- Care Pantry: The overwhelming response to Harvest Sunday, enabling St. Thomas to provide food to 65–70 families every two weeks.
- Hesed House Ministry: Meals prepared by parishioners, helping Hesed continue to house 250–300 people each night.
- Haiti Twinning: An amazing response to the Haiti Weekend collection, supporting education and meals for the children of Duchity.
- Lakota Ministry: A winter coat, blanket and sleeping bag collection for those living on the Pine Ridge Reservation.
- DuPage Housing Alliance: Positive meetings with Naperville City Council members regarding affordable housing in Naperville.
- Immigration/Refugee Initiative: Continuing to make “Know Your Rights” information available.
- St. Nicholas Relationship: Celebrating the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe with the people of St. Nicholas Parish in Aurora.
So much of this work depends on the generosity of the people of St. Thomas and incredible volunteers.. Thank you for your continued support, and for helping us build a more just and compassionate world.
Ministry Fair: May 16–17
The Ministry Fair will take place May 16–17 after all Masses. Stop by to learn about the many ways to serve and grow together as a faith community — especially through our Outreach and Social Justice (OSJ) ministries. If you feel called to get involved, we’d love to answer your questions and share more about current opportunities. Be sure to visit the OSJ tables.
