Volunteering
Demonstrating the Easter Message
By Sue Olafson
Director, Hope Ministries
Palm Sunday marks the first day of Holy Week and commemorates Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. But today’s gospel reading doesn’t tell the whole story. The main part of the story is told on Easter, when through his death, Jesus ultimately sets us free from the power of evil, sin and final death. Jesus provides us with the freedom and the responsibility to always do what we believe is right.
Discerning what is right isn’t always easy. There are many moral dilemmas that may leave us uncertain and confused. But Jesus did leave us all with examples of just what “right” might look like. Jesus made clear that helping the poor, vulnerable or disenfranchised was important when he said, “Whatsoever you do to the least of your brothers and sisters, you do unto me.”
Freely choosing to help the least among us is something so many have done here at Saint Anne Catholic Community. And with April recognized as National Volunteer Month, there couldn’t be a better Easter message demonstrated, than these volunteers who, in their freedom, choose to help those in need through Saint Anne Hope Ministries.
The ministry monthly assists nearly 200 neighbors in need with food and other support – such as shelter, transportation or utility and medical support. Additionally, the ministry’s mission is extended to many other community partners who receive our financial support to ensure thousands more receive the help needed to live lives with dignity and respect. But it couldn’t be done without the dedication and commitment of our volunteers.
Volunteers assist at Hope Ministries Project Hope food pantry or at its funding source, The House of Hope Resale Shop in Lake Zurich. There are so many jobs to fill, and these volunteers fill them with the love and compassion Jesus showed the poor and the vulnerable. These volunteers personify the ministry’s message of hope and are wonderful examples of Easter’s promise.
Easter is about hope, after all. Jesus shows us that death doesn’t end on a cross and that whatever struggle you might be facing, whatever difficult road may be ahead, He brings the promise of peace, forgiveness and joy. He set us free.
Thank you, Saint Anne Hope Ministries’ volunteers for giving so many the hope of Easter.
And Happy National Volunteer Month!