Grosse Pointe Farms parishioners join hundreds of volunteers across Archdiocese of Detroit during annual service opportunity
GROSSE POINTE FARMS — Over the weekend, parishes and hundreds of volunteers across the Archdiocese of Detroit took part in the annual Mercy in Action Day of Service, fanning out to make a difference for neighbors in need.
The annual archdiocese-wide service effort, which took place Oct. 18, is sponsored by Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan.
More than 170 volunteers came together at St. Paul on the Lake Parish in Grosse Pointe Farms, one of the participating sites, to assemble 20,000 meals to support neighbors in need locally and around the globe. Volunteers included families, students and parishioners from St. Paul and other members of the Saints of the Lake Family of Parishes.
The morning began with Mass and hospitality, followed by an introduction from the parish's Christian service leader, Tricia Kesteloot, who emphasized the spirit of evangelical charity, the idea that every person has the gift of themselves to offer others. Volunteers' efforts aided local ministries such as Front Porch and Franciscan Ministries, as well as communities in Guatemala, through a partnership with Michael Burwell from Kids Coalition Against Hunger.
Volunteers packed meals containing nutritious blends of soy, dehydrated vegetables and rice, designed to provide a complete meal for six adults or 12 children for only $2.10. The day also included moments of prayer and reflection, with Fr. Jim Bilot asking God to bless the volunteers’ work and guide them to serve with love and compassion.
“It’s fun … it’s a good way to help others," shared Ava Piazza, one of the young volunteers. “It makes you feel good because you can help others for a good cause.”
Originally aiming to pack 10,000 meals, the project quickly grew to 20,000 meals thanks to the generosity and enthusiasm of the parish and support from the Knights of Columbus, reflecting both the spirit of charity within the community and the parish’s ongoing commitment to living out the Gospel in practical ways.
(Photos by Izzy Cortese | Detroit Catholic)
