The Bible is a love story from God. Some may even say it is a handbook for how to live one’s life here on earth.
“Love one another as I have loved you.” (John 13:34)
Jesus is the perfect example of God’s love. He was sent into the world to save us from our sins. His suffering and death were immeasurable. And what does he ask us in return? He asks us to love as he loves.
One way that Jesus asks us to love our neighbor is to help those who are in need. As the cost of living rises, some are finding it difficult to make ends meet. During the holidays many of us donate food or gift cards to our local food pantries for those in need.
Hunger lives on Long Island.
There are many Long Islanders who can’t pay their mortgage or rent. Some will struggle to pay their bills or buy necessities for their families. Even in the most affluent neighborhoods, some are struggling to make ends meet.
Poverty lives on Long Island.
Did you know that there is a large population of seniors and home-bound individuals who are lonely and find it difficult to get out and shop for necessities?
Loneliness lives on Long Island.
Adults with mental and physical disabilities, as well as veterans, are struggling to find safe and affordable housing. Families torn apart through battles of substance abuse are suffering. Individuals and families who are fighting illness are lonely and scared.
Suffering lives on Long Island.
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)
Your donation to the Catholic Ministries Appeal helps support a number of ministries that bring real help to your neighbors in need on Long Island.
Parish Outreach programs offer food, clothing, and help with getting basic needs met. Catholic Charities “Meals on Wheels” program delivers home-cooked meals to those who are homebound. They have programs that help provide substance abuse services and day treatment programs.
The goal of Hospital Ministry is to offer words of encouragement and prayer with faith to extend the love of Christ and promote healing. The Prison Ministry brings hope to the incarcerated and their families by tending to their spiritual needs, bringing them closer to Christ.
The Office of Multicultural Diversity serves the spiritual, cultural, educational, and social needs of Catholics of African ancestry in the Diocese.
The mission of Respect Life Ministry is to build a civilization of love and life that upholds the dignity and sanctity of all innocent life.
The Catholic Ministries Appeal aims to be the answer to Jesus’ call to help our brothers and sisters in need.
‘‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?’
And our Lord replied ‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’ (Matthew 25: 40)