March 5 is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent, when we are called upon to prepare our hearts for Christ at Easter by practicing prayer, fasting and almsgiving. This year our Mother of God Social Action Committee has selected the following two charities for your almsgiving consideration: Hurricane Relief and Isaiah 117 House.
Hurricane Relief
With seemingly one disaster after another, we often forget about the disasters that occured just a few months ago, although relief is needed well into the future. In late September 2024, Hurricane Helene hit North Carolina, primarily its western Appalachian region, resulting in the deadliest and costliest storms in recent North Carolina history. The Social Action Committee considered several agencies for hurricane relief, finally deciding on St. Eugene Parish in Asheville, NC. Through a Social Action Committee member, they learned of a Kettering resident, Joan Mills, who was moved to collect relief items and deliver them to the Asheville area. Joan's efforts led her to St. Eugene Parish. St. Eugene is continuing to collect donations and deliver assistance to residents in Asheville, one of the hardest hit areas.
Isaiah 117 House
The name comes from a bible verse, Isaiah 1:17, that asks us to "defend the cause of the fatherless." Isaiah 117 House is a place for children waiting for placement into a foster home. When a child is removed from their home, most often, they leave with nothing. They are scared, unsure what will happen next. Isaiah House 117 provides a lovely home-like setting until arrangements are made. Volunteers come with a sole purpose of showering these children with love and making their stay there comfortable and joyful. Isaiah 117 House began in Tennessee, but they are building a home here in Dayton. Our donations will be helping them get this up and running, as they start helping the children in Montgomery County.
Donations to both charities can be made through the parish website by clicking on theonline giving button, using the special envelopes in your March-April mailed packet, or picking up an envelope at the display in the Gathering Space. At the Isaiah 117 House display, there will also be a list of needed items that you can purchase and place them in the bin provided. Please join us in supporting our almsgiving charities this Lenten season. Look for more information about our charities in this space and other media throughout Lent.
