It has become apparent that there is a serious need within our Parish Family for assistance for some to experience Mass with our community. No matter how many Masses are available on TV, or streamed on the Internet, nothing will be the same as communing with friends and family of our parish. We are blessed to have amazing and dedicated volunteers that are able and excited to assist others in our invigorated Companion Driving Ministry. Here is an introduction to this ministry from Beth Lucci:
Everyone knows how to be young because we’ve all done it, but none of us knows what it’s like to grow old until we do it. We’ve only seen the aging process through the eyes of our parents, grandparents, relatives or friends.
As a physical therapist specializing in the field of geriatric rehabilitation for over 25 years, I can attest that the “circle of life” is now considerably longer due to advances in medical technology. I have no doubt in my mind that 80 is the new 60, as our senior population is undergoing elective surgical procedures to extend the quality of their lives, thus allowing them to gracefully age in place, by remaining in their homes. Unfortunately, the day comes when they have to make the responsible decision to surrender their driver’s license and either sell, gift or donate their vehicle. It’s a life changing event, because they no longer have the independence to go where they want, when they want or with whom they want.
As director of the Companion Driving Ministry, it is my goal to engage the entire parish family in embracing our mission statement, “ To Know, To Love and To Serve God in His church and our community.” There are many people among us, regardless of age, who no longer attend church services because they don’t have transportation. These individuals are now considered “homebound” by society, not necessarily due to a medical condition, but because they can’t drive. It’s regretful how they are no longer able to come to church, an activity that most, if not all have done since childhood.
Father John and his brethren priests frequently remind us that as a faith based community, we are journeying in this world as a parish family, regardless of age, income level or marital status. Our spiritual journey, led by Jesus Christ in the Holy Spirit, is meant for us to grow our faith and become better disciples of God. This companion driving ministry program offers everyone the opportunity to become involved or stay involved with our parish family, one whose foundation is built on Faith, Hope, and most importantly, Love. Some have questioned the liability involved with driving a fellow parishioner to Mass. There is no more liability involved than carpooling with a colleague to work or transporting a classmate to a school function or sporting event. Besides, if Jesus had a car, what would He do?
For more information about this exciting ministry or to become a volunteer, please call Beth at 877-6254 (email [email protected]) or the parish office at 566-8740. If you no longer drive, or are no longer comfortable driving to Mass, but want to attend church services, please call the above numbers also. I look forward to speaking with you.
Stay Healthy, Stay Happy and most of all Stay Blessed
Beth Lucci, PT