For the homebound, remaining connected to our faith community requires the loving commitment of other parishioners who are called to outreach ministry. For many years, this has meant monthly visits to parishioners residing temporarily or permanently in independent living, rehabilitation, nursing homes and hospice facilities all over northeast Ohio.
Led by our pastor and coordinated by Marge Thomas-Repcik, our First Friday team of extraordinary ministers of holy Communion brings the Eucharist—praying and visiting with homebound parishioners and their families—with Father Gurnick also offering the sacraments of reconciliation and anointing of the sick. In addition, holiday gift baskets from our Shamrocks, friendly greeting cards and weekly bulletins through the mail all serve to extend our love and fellowship to parishioners who can’t join us in person.
But what does this look like during a pandemic?
We still have the telephone, and the US Postal Service! On First Fridays or more frequently, team members continue to reach out, calling homebound parishioners to check in, pray, share news of the parish, and help lift the burden of isolation.
Volunteers for First Friday Communion ministry need to be extraordinary ministers of holy Communion, but anyone can send a friendly card to brighten someone’s day. Are you (or your child) called to minister in this way? Let us know! 216-631-6872 or first.friday@stpatrickbridge.org.