Uniting After the Gabriel House Tragedy, the Jubilee Journey and a Pastoral Visit to Nantucket

A Community Grieves and Unites After the Gabriel House Fire

Volunteers from Steppingstone, Inc. join Catholic Charities CEO Susan Mazzarella (center) to sort donated items for those impacted by the Gabriel House fire.

With the help of many dedicated staff and volunteers, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fall River is now providing personalized care packages to the displaced residents of Gabriel House. These packages include necessary items and also acts of kindness to meet the needs of each of the impacted individuals, offering some comfort during this difficult time. They are also working closely with other local organizations to provide continued support as individuals transition into temporary housing and, eventually, more permanent living situations.

They continue to welcome donations, and your support remains a source of hope for those affected. At this time, our Catholic Charities staff tells me they are in need of shaving care items, hygiene products, loose-fitting clothing such as sweatpants and shorts, and gift cards to help residents replace their personal belongings. You are welcome to drop off donated items at the Catholic Charities Office, located at 1600 Bay Street in Fall River. Thanks to the donations received thus far, they no longer need general clothing, shoes, or medical equipment. Your thoughtful giving has made an incredible difference in a time of difficulty. This story, published in the Fall River Herald News, shares some more information about the impact of the Church during this tragedy, thanks to your generosity. 

I want to extend a special word of gratitude to the Carver Police Department, the Action Team, the volunteers from Steppingstone Incorporated, and so many others for their extraordinary generosity. I thank our staff at Catholic Charities for their tireless work to coordinate the collection and delivery of the donated items. May God bless all who have given so generously for the love and mercy you continue to demonstrate in this time of great need. 

The Impact of Small Groups in the Jubilee Journey

Last week, I joined nearly 130 people at Holy Redeemer Parish in Chatham for a Jubilee Year event organized by the parish’s Small Groups Ministry. Holy Redeemer is home to eight Gospel Reflection and Faith-Sharing Groups, with more than 80 parishioners participating.

We began the morning with a blessing of the parish’s new Allen organ and Yamaha piano. I am sure these will serve to enhance the liturgies and overall worship experience for parishioners.  We were then treated to an organ recital by Kevin DiLorenzo of Allen Organ.

I was honored to offer a reflection on the theme of the Jubilee Year, Pilgrims of Hope. I spoke about how small group communities, like those flourishing at Holy Redeemer, are critical to our journey. Since the time of the 12 Apostles, the Church has grown through the power of small, faith-filled communities who support one another, share the Gospel, and bear witness to Christ’s hope in the world. I hope to see more of these small groups form and thrive throughout our Diocese.

After lunch, I had the opportunity to sit in on one of the small group Gospel reflections and faith-sharing sessions. It reminded me once again of how the Holy Spirit is at work in quiet and powerful ways in our parishes.

Pastoral Visit to Nantucket: Faith, Fellowship and Island Hospitality

I like to visit our Cape parishes in the summer and this past weekend, I made a pastoral visit to Nantucket. I am grateful to all who made the visit so welcoming. Over the course of the weekend, I celebrated four Masses, three at St. Mary, Our Lady of the Isle, including the Spanish Mass on Sunday evening, and one at the Sconset Chapel early Sunday morning. (Did you know the chapel is one of only two in the country that provides worship space for Catholics and Protestants?)

Throughout the weekend, I had the pleasure of meeting many parishioners at the Masses, receptions, lunches, and dinners. We also took time on Saturday to bless the newly renovated  rectory, followed by a small reception in the yard. I’m grateful to Fr. John Murray, the pastor of St. Mary’s and Fr. Carlos Patiño-Villa, parochial vicar, for their hospitality and ministry on the Island, and Fr. Marcel Bouchard, pastor emeritus, for joining me on the weekend visit. 

One special moment of the trip came just as we were leaving the island. While waiting in line for the ferry, a family from Vermont approached me and shared how meaningful it was to attend Mass during their visit. Their kind words were a reminder of the power of the Eucharist to unite us wherever we are. It was the perfect way to conclude a busy but memorable weekend.

Sincerely,

+Bishop da Cunha