As we move into February, there are a tremendous number of programs and events here at Saint John to assist those in need with our generosity. From the JOP Casino Night this week to the Knights of Columbus Valentine Dinner Dance, these opportunities allow us to enjoy each others’ company and give to these worthy causes. One new event that I would highly recommend you think about is the Feeding Hunger, Filling Hearts Fundraiser, occurring on Ash Wednesday, February 18th. This is the first ever fundraiser for Guadalupe Social Services, in Immokalee. Sometimes confused with the Guadalupe Center, the Guadalupe Social Services is a Catholic Charities organization that provides a food bank, homeless showering program, clothing distribution, English instruction, immigration and psychological counseling, along with the Casa Maria Soup Kitchen, serving lunch to the homeless community of Immokalee. This organization, started by nuns in the 70’s, can use all the support we can provide, and the extreme poverty only 35 miles from our church doors cannot be ignored.
Please see the advertisement on page X of this bulletin for tickets for this event. There will be two seatings for soup, at 1PM and at 6PM, to make it easy for those of you coming from either the noon or 5PM Ash Wednesday Masses. Thank you so much for your continued kindness.