Strength in Unity

Posted by Sr. Marjorie Hebert, MSC | February 2018 | 

As we start a new year, let us reflect on the lyrics of Marty Haugen’s hymn, “We are many parts, but we are all one body.” This message reminds us that we may be able to make a small impact alone, but that when we come together, we are stronger. Marty Haugen was of course referencing Corinthians 12: 12 – 27, which says, “The eye can’t say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” The head can’t say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” In fact, it is just the opposite…. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it.” Similarly, each of Catholic Charities’ 30+ programs tend to the specific needs of our clients, but without the entire organization, only a few issues are resolved.

At CCANO, our programs address the needs of the entire individual from conception through every phase of life’s journey. Our services clothe, feed, house, educate, and heal. A client who might initially enroll his or her child in one of our Head Start programs could then be referred to our English as a Second Language services and later our Counseling Solutions program to reach a goal of self-sufficiency and to grow from vulnerability to stability. This approach is a holistic one, digging into the root causes of why an individual is struggling and taking a comprehensive look to lift a person to his or her full potential. Today, research has found that this holistic treatment method is the best practice to assess each client’s life experiences and what obstacles are hindering progress.

It is the Spirit of Love that unites us in our hope against despair. While Catholic Charities has many services, we are one organization. We achieve more together collectively than we do separately through our partner agencies, parish ministries, and supporters like you. We are all called to serve others but, most importantly, we are called to love one another and must love the entire person, not just the parts we prefer. It is only through the work and support of all of CCANO’s programs that we are moving the needle to reduce poverty. As Marty Haugen’s hymn reminds us, “May the Spirit of love, make us one indeed.”

Thank you for your prayers and gifts.

 

God bless you,

Sr. Marjorie Signature
Sr. Marjorie Hebert, MSC
President/CEO