Office of Parish Social Ministry comes together for annual meeting of appreciation

Parish volunteers from across the Diocese, whose work is essential to meeting the needs of those who come to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen for help, were honored June 27 during Catholic Charities Office of Parish Social Ministry’s annual meeting of appreciation, held in St. Matthias Parish, Somerset.

The always anticipated annual event was planned by Maria Hunter who serves as ministry director, and who expressed her sincere gratitude to all who are in-volved in the ministry and for all who attended the evening’s gathering.

Bishop James F. Checchio, who was unable to attend the event, sent a meaningful video message for the parish social ministers who undertake so many works of mercy. He said, “You do so much for our people and for our Church, that I am truly indebted and grateful for you. ...“Keep up the good work. Keep on loving the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and strength by loving your neighbor. God bless you.

After the video, parish volunteers enjoyed dinner and fellowship with each other. One by one, they stood up and shared their greatest success stories of the past year. A prominent topic that was brought up was parish food pantries and how they operate. Volunteers had the op-opportunity to share tips and resources – an important part of the evening.

Catholic Charities Office of Parish Social Ministry collaborates and net-works with those who serve their parish in social/outreach ministry. Bob Cherill, a member of St. Matthias Parish, has been involved with the St. Vincent de Paul Society since 2015. He loves gathering with other parish social ministers and sharing spirituality and good works for those in need. “Since COVID, federal programs have gone away, landlords have gotten strict with rent.” He continued, “Every-one has felt the pinch of inflation, people are in need and we need to increase giving. People need to take action. Our callas Catholics is to take care of the people of the world.”

Several of those in ministry from Corpus Christi Parish, South River, concurred, “Thank goodness for Catholic Charities and Maria Hunter. She’s a great leader and always so positive.” They explained that when people call their parish asking for help, the social ministers do everything they can. “Most of the time, it’s people looking for a place to live, or they’re looking for help to get their water or electric turned back on,” noting that they use the resources that Catholic Charities provides to help as many people as they can.

For more information on this ministry or to get involved, please visit ccdom.org/middlesex-parish-social-ministry or email Maria Hunter at [email protected]. For more information about Catholic Charities Diocese of Metuchen, please visit ccdom.org. Like and Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X @ccdom1 to stay updated on upcoming events and ways CCDOM helps clients get the services and assistance they need.

Tiffany Workman is the Communications Specialist in the Office of Communications and Public Relations