Members of the Faithful Apostles of Christ gathered for a Mass of thanksgiving at noon on June 18 at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in downtown Cleveland. Bishop Nelson Perez was the celebrant and Benedictine Father Denis, who was visiting from Ireland, concelebrated.
The group consists of those who have been consistent supporters of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Cleveland. Bishop Perez recognized and thanked them before Mass began and offered the liturgy for their intentions.
“This special Mass recognizes our donors, especially those who have given generously to help the more than 400,000 people who are assisted each year by Catholic Charities,” the bishop said.
Referring to the Gospel, which he said “was one of the uncomfortable ones,” Bishop Perez reminded the congregation that everyone “is on someone’s list.” He said Jesus showed us what distinguishes Christian love from all other types of love.
“It is a love that never expects anything in return,” he said, adding that this is a good comparison to what the Faithful Apostles of Christ do when they make a donation to help those in need.
“Hate and resentment in the heart weigh deeply on the heart,” the bishop said. “They are clouds on our lives.” He said we should ask God to help us rise above this and to make us free of heart.
Donations from members of the Faithful Apostles of Christ have helped transform the lives of the disabled, addicted, lonely and hungry throughout Northeast Ohio. Their ongoing support and generosity helps Catholic Charities as it carries out the teachings of Jesus Christ with mercy, charity and thanksgiving.
Catholic Charities has been providing quality services throughout Northeast Ohio for more than 100 years. As a Catholic social service organization, it focuses on respecting the dignity of each person that requests assistance.
Visit catholiccommunity.org/faithfulapostles, call Sarah Yantek, 216-696-6525, Ext. 1049, or email syantek@catholiccommunity.org for more information.