Brothers,
I want to share a few thoughts with you following our food drive this past Saturday, September 12.
As most of you know, our monthly food drive is normally held from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Last week, I sent an email asking if some of our members could come out and help. Of our 77 members, two brothers responded. One was unable to participate because he was going to be out of town, and the other brother responded and came out to help.
As a result, it was just the two of us working the food drive on Saturday.
I have to admit that I found that discouraging. Not because I expect everyone to participate in every event or program, but because this is an important part of what we do as Knights. The Loft is there waiting for us each month, and they serve more than 350 families each week—approximately 1,200 people who depend on the services they provide.
We learned from a very young age the Gospel call to “feed the hungry.” Our food drive is one small but very tangible way that we can live out that call.
I also realize that we have a council of 77 members with different responsibilities, schedules, abilities, and circumstances. Some of our brothers have medical issues or other limitations that make it difficult or impossible for them to participate physically. Your prayers and support are just as valuable, and we are grateful for them.
My concern is that we too often find ourselves relying on the same 15–20 brothers to carry much of the work for our various programs and events. I am very grateful for those brothers who consistently step forward, but over time that can become a heavy burden.
The old saying really does apply: many hands make light work.
I’m asking each of us to take a little time to consider how we can become involved in our council. You don’t have to participate in everything. Take a look at the programs and activities we support and choose one or two that speak to you—perhaps something that interests you or where you feel your God-given talents could make a difference.
Our council is strongest when all of us contribute in whatever way we are able. Sometimes that may mean giving a few hours on a Saturday. Sometimes it may mean helping behind the scenes. And sometimes, especially for those who cannot participate physically, it may simply mean keeping our council, our parish, and the people we serve in your prayers.
I hope we can all take this opportunity to reflect on how we can support one another and strengthen our council. There is a lot of good work being done, and I believe we can accomplish even more when more of us take part.
Thank you to all of our brothers who continue to give their time, talents, and prayers. Your commitment is deeply appreciated.
Vivat Jesus!
Fraternally,
Joseph Cardella, GK