Christian Service Council
June 2011
In early 2005, Fr. Jack Sewell in consultation with the parish Pastoral and Finance Councils established the parish Christian Service Fund. Recognizing our call to be stewards of all God’s gifts, a portion of our regular Sunday offertory is set aside to be distributed to organizations who work to meet the needs of the poor and marginalized. A Christian Service Council was formed to develop guidelines and criteria for distributing the funds in light of our Gospel values.
To date, $42,250 has been distributed to local and regional organizations as well as select foreign missions. These organizations include The Catholic Worker Community of Orange County, Pregnancy Resource Center in San Clemente, Camino Health Center in San Juan Capistrano, Lights On and Micah's Way in Santa Ana, Meals on Wheels and Boys & Girls Club of SC, Welcome INN, iHOPE and missions in Ecuador and Haiti. The funds have been used to address fundamental life issues including hunger, homelessness, health care and education. An additional $7,700 will be distributed this fiscal year. In addition to the administration of the Christian Service Fund, the Council is responsible for the parish’s monthly food drive, FiSH Ministry, Operation Rice Bowl and is actively identifying other outreach opportunities.
