Please, please, please . . .

Please, please, please . . .  Is there anyone out there that can help today in SoCal?  The poor homeless have been going to ER for dehydration and also dying on the streets because of this unusually hot summer with sweltering heat.  As they suffer and die, the requests on their behalf since March of 2013 for a "water bottle and snack Sunday" was recently answered by Msgr. Paul Albee, thanks be to God for Fr. Jim Clarke, spiritual director at St. John's Seminary, he interceded and made it happen.  However, one response does not provide enough supplies.  Possibly you all are the next angels that will follow Fr. Jim Clarke and say a word and inspire others to help save these poor souls from untimely death this summer.  Of course, we are very grateful to Pope Francis for going public asking us all to minimize bureaucracy and theology debates and increase concern for the poor as our Christian essence.  St. Francis is famous for reminding us: "let's preach, but hopefully without words." You and your church pastor working together, you can set up a collection Sunday.  Follow the information on the flyer. Here is a sample church bulletin announcement all ready for you. You can do it!

"Water Bottle & Snack Sunday" for the Homeless

On Saturday, XXXXX and Sunday, XXXXX, we'll be collecting cases of bottled water, as well as flip-top canned tuna, chicken, packaged cookies, raisins, dried fruits, chip snacks, pudding cups, etc. for the homeless to be delivered to them living in remote areas of the Los Angeles Archdiocese - under bridges, in alleyways, warehouse districts, etc. and are at risk of dehydration, ER visits and even death from exposure and dehydration. Upon arriving at church, leave the snacks and water cases at the main doors; Servants of the Father of Mercy, a Catholic homeless mission team will be here to receive your donation, (men's clothing, hotel soaps, socks, blankets are helpful too). The Servants of the Father of Mercy is a private association of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, California Corporation, IRS 501 (c) 3 nonprofit, EIN 26 - 3855133 and listed in the Official Catholic Directory.  They may be reached by mail at S.F.M., 7400 Ralston Street, Ventura, CA 93003 or by calling their cell phone at 310-595-4175.  Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to Christ will certainly not lose his reward." Mark 9:41