Every month, we have over 1,850+ incredibly generous volunteers who share their time, talents, and treasures across our 30+ programs. Each volunteer seeks to live out what Pope St. John Paul II says in Gaudium et Seps that “man can only find himself in a sincere gift of self” (24). Through this immense gift of self, our volunteers have a unique opportunity to bear witness to the depth of humanity, dignity, and suffering of our clients. By offering a kind smile, getting to know a client’s name, and helping to prepare a place where all are welcome, there lies the opportunity for the gift of self and the discovery of self. We have the unique opportunity to also receive clients exactly as they are which can also restore their dignity by giving them the space they need and grace when they aren’t able to share in return. 

As volunteers and staff, we are co-laborers in the field of solidarity, working towards safer, peaceful, and more just neighborhoods, cities, states and world. We are answering this call to walk with all of our brothers and sisters in need without expecting anything in return. Trusting that the often ‘thankless’ jobs are seen and loved by our Heavenly Father and that it can be enough. There are many gifts that the Father wants to share from a place of abundant gratitude for the work done each day, we need only to open our own eyes, hands, and hearts to receive it.

Pray: Jesus, open my eyes, hands, and heart to receive the gifts you are showering upon me this day. I pray for all those that I will encounter in my work, my service, and my community, help me to see them as you see them.  

Reflect: Jesus, where were the blessings on this day? Were there opportunities to love another that I did well or could have done better? What are three things I am grateful for this day?