Posted by Sr. Marjorie Hebert, MSC  | September 2016  |

Let me first begin by thanking you for all that you do to support the work of Catholic Charities. As long as there is a need to be filled in the community, Catholic Charities will be present to provide help and hope to individuals and families. In this newsletter we’ve highlighted stories from our ministries that you have played a role in making possible. As I’ve quoted before, Pope Francis, while addressing the 2014 annual Catholic Charities USA gathering, referred to Catholic Charities as, “the engine of the Church that organizes love.” You are a part of this love, and our work would not be possible without your time, prayers and donations.

In a recent gathering, we were asked to reflect on the Parable of The Good Samaritan. As we know, the Parable of the Good Samaritan was told in response to the questioning of the commandment to love thy neighbor as thyself. Jesus is asked, “And who is my neighbor?” (Luke 10:29). In His response, He tells of a man who fell victim to robbers and lay beaten in the street. In his need, this man was ignored by two passersby and finally cared for by the Samaritan. The Samaritan did not stop to question the man’s race, religion, class or creed – the only requirement for him to show compassion was need.

Likewise, Catholic Charities cares for those in need regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or economic status. We see this as we work with disaster victims in LaPlace and on the North Shore, and with neighboring Dioceses of Baton Rouge and Lafayette – people from all walks of life coming together to comfort, support and assist their neighbors in need. It is not always convenient to put into practice this love for our neighbor, but necessary as we follow the teachings of Christ to foster a more just and compassionate society.

In the same 2014 address to Catholic Charities USA, Pope Francis said that like the Good Samaritan and Innkeeper, “we are called to be in the streets, inviting and serving those who have been left out.” As long as we are able, Catholic Charities will continue to care for our neighbors in need and be the Good Samaritan. You, through your support and assistance, share our role of being the Good Samaritan. I thank you again for your support and prayers.

God bless you,

Sr. Marjorie Hebert, MSC
President/CEO