Without the support of our friends like you, folks like John Mueller would not receive vital services from the Franciscan Center. Now, John is paying it forward by helping others who are less fortunate.
By Sr. Mary Jeanne Quinlivan, OSF
Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi
John Mueller, who receives services from the Franciscan Center, wanted to give back to the community.
The Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi in Baltimore have been supporting the Raphael Community Clinic in Kerrville, Texas for several years. Sr. Marge Novak, OSF, oversees the clinic, which provides health services to economically-disadvantaged people.
I work as a social worker at the Franciscan Center and often mail bags of prescription bottles to be recycled and used at the Texas clinic.
John Mueller, who receives services from the Franciscan Center, wanted to give back to the community and heard about the medical ministry. He began providing his own prescription bottles. He then began collecting bottles from his neighbors and friends as well. John said that the Franciscan Center helped him at a time when he needed help. He said that he wanted to give back by helping others in some way.
It is often those in need who are the most generous with their time and resources. It reminds us of the story of the widow’s mite in the Gospel. “Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other contributors to the treasury. She from her poverty has contributed all she had.”
Thank you, John, for having such a big heart and such a giving spirit. You have assisted Sister Marge in continuing her efforts to provide medical care to those in need in Texas. You have demonstrated what “Option for the Poor” means by living out in a beautiful way the Gospel values of love and compassion for one’s neighbor.
Donations of Bread
For nearly 20 years, Anita Healy has donated bread and other baked goods to the Franciscan Center.
For nearly 20 years, Carroll County resident Anita Healy has collected bread and other baked goods from area stores, bakeries and restaurants and delivered it to organizations like the Franciscan Center that serve the poor. She also provides baked goods and other supplies for the Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi’s retreat house in Manchester, Maryland.
Anita gives so generously of her time and resources – and she’s very humble about the important difference she’s made in so many lives. “I enjoy doing it,” she said.
Special thanks to Anita for her great kindness!
