Martha Ministry

The death of a loved one is a very difficult experience. At times the loss may feel overwhelming. In a short time period there is the stress of making many decisions. The faith community can show its support, not only by praying for the family at Mass, but by reaching out and offering hospitality after the funeral. Jesus teaches the disciples the importance of hospitality (Luke 7:44-47; Luke 9:12-13; Luke 14:12-14; Luke 16:19-31; Matt 10:4-12; Matt. 18:5). St. Paul exhorts us: "Be generous in your hospitality" (Romans 12:13) and the writer of the Letter to the Hebrews states: "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers for thereby some have entertained angels unaware" (Hebrews 13:2). Hospitality is our desire to create a space where the stranger can become a friend. Ultimately when we welcome others, we welcome Christ (Matt. 25:35-40). This concrete offer of hospitality helps make the journey of grief more bearable. Bereaved family members will never forget this act of kindness. St. John has done this (St. Patrick has offered this for years) by starting a ministry called " The Martha Ministry." (It is named after Jesus' friend Martha, who extended hospitality to Jesus when he was in her home.) This ministry of hospitality is brought about by offering a modest meal to the family and friends after the funeral, at St. John's School Hall (or St. Patrick's Church Hall). This act of kindness helps take one of the many burdens off the family's shoulder.

There is no charge to the family for this ministry (but donations are always welcome to help defray any cost of the meal, especially for those in the future, if our financial resources become more limited). The ministry relies heavily on parish volunteers. Some parishioners help by preparing the food, others by setting up, serving it, or cleaning up. (Each group can always use additional volunteers, especially those willing to take responsibility for coordinating the whole meal, which is done now by three people on a rotating basis.)

There are some circumstances (like over the holidays or when two funerals are held on the same day, etc.) where it may not be possible to hold the Martha Ministry. There also may be some situations that the family members may choose another place for their meal (someone's home, John's Restaurant, VFW, catered by Trackside Deli, etc.). No matter what the particular situation, we want to at least offer to our grieving families, the possibility of the Martha Ministry. In doing this, we can play a small part in making Jesus' words come true in this time and in this place: "Bless too are the sorrowing, they shall be consoled" (Matt. 5:4)

If you need more information or wish to help out in some capacity please call Fr. Jim Hewes or our secretary Gloria at the rectory (315-923-3941).