Monroe Vicariate Peace and Justice Meeting

Monroe Vicariate Peace and Justice Meeting

December 4, 2014; 3:00pm

Present: Mark Bohmer, Ann Aschenbrener, Gwen Marlow, Sr. Roberta, Lorie Bronson

I.  Opening Prayer: Gwen read the Gospel of the day, Lorie read a reflection on this Gospel from: a periodical, ”Give Us This Day”.

II.  Review of meeting notes from the past meeting, November 3, 2014. Approved as written.

III.  Old Business A. In the Spirit of Giving 1. It was decided that a “thank you” card be sent to the IHM Leadership Council for their donation of grant monies ($2,000) to be used for the purchase of beds.

2. Crucifix’s from Fr. David will be taken to “In the Spirit of Giving” to be given to those who come seeking help.

3.  We will promote the awareness that when new furniture is purchased from local stores, the “out-going” furniture/appliances can be donated to ITSOG. This will be done through articles in the church bulletins.

4.  Monroe Evening News ads will begin in January when there are “furniture sales” in stores and people may be replacing furniture with newer items. The hope is that the older furniture can be donated to “In the Spirit of Giving”.

5.  The “In the Spirit of Giving” volunteer list was updated with Ann’s help.

6.  In the spirit of evangelization, Mark Bohmer will research other options for “Catholic” brochures that can be shared with those who come to “In the Spirit of Giving”.

7.  Sr. Roberta read the “testimonial” from a “In the Spirit of Giving” client whose experience attests to the life-changing experience that this ministry offers to those most in need. This “testimonial” was included in the Thanksgiving Day cards mailed to our volunteers.

8.  Lorie will speak with the author of the testimonial, Ashley, to ask if her testimonial can be edited. The revised testimonial will be shared with parishes, in hopes that it will be included in their bulletins.

9.  Lorie will re-format the letter if Ashley consents, and circulate among members of committee as well as request the county’s churches to incorporate in their weekly brochures.

IV.  New Business A. In January 2015, we will do strategic planning, identifying 2 areas of involvement for the Peace and Justice Committee.

V.  We agreed to pray during Advent for guidance/direction with regards to the Peace and Justice Committee.

Respectfully submitted,

Lorie Bronson