Holy Spirit Outreach Ministry
“When did we see you as a stranger and take you into our homes or see you in need of clothes and give you something to wear? When did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ “The king will answer them, ‘I can guarantee this truth: Whatever you did for one of my brothers or sisters, no matter how unimportant they seemed, you did for me.”’ Matthew 25:37-40
Our Holy Spirit Parish Women’s Society is actively involved in the following ministries.
Prayer Shawl Ministry
Prayer shawls are created for those who need to be wrapped in love and prayer to comfort their suffering from mental, physical, or emotional difficulties. As the women knit or crochet, they pray for God’s love and healing for the person who may receive it. Here is their prayer:
“Dear Lord, bless my hands as I knit today. May each twist of the yarn guide me to create a pattern of love and comfort in my work and remind me of your ultimate protection. Wrap me in your spirit so that I will be more caring towards those in need. Grant me patience as I create and bless my handiwork as it travels to bring comfort and peace to someone in need of your warming embrace.
Amen.”
After the prayer they ask if anyone has any special intentions followed by an ending prayer.
If you know of someone who is ill or in need of healing, in mind, body, or spirit, please take them a prayer shawl. They are located in both foyers of our worship sites.
Biblical origins of Shawl Ministry
Prayer shawls are an Old Testament biblical practice held by Jewish men for hundreds of years. Traditionally, they would wear them over their heads when they would go to pray at the synagogue and for other major holidays.
How it got started in modern times
The Prayer Shawl Ministry was introduced in North America in 1998 and has since evolved into a Christian ministry with hundreds of Christian Churches of all denominations creating prayer shawls. Use the link to find out more about this wonderful ministry.
When do the Women’s Society make the shawls?
They meet weekly on Wednesday from 10am to 12pm in the rectory hall. They have the shawls blessed twice a year, after Easter & around Thanksgiving.
Mittens and Hats
As part of the prayer shawl ministry, the Women’s Society make over 200 mittens as well as hats, scarves, headbands, & socks for the area schools, Avenue B, & Horizon Recovery Centre.
Avenue B Harm Reduction Inc.
What is Avenue B?
Mission
Avenue B Harm Reduction Inc. (formerly AIDS Saint John Inc.) is a non-profit community-based organization aimed at:
a) improving the quality of life of those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS, and
b) striving to reduce the spread of HIV by promoting healthy choices in the community at large. This will be accomplished through education and public awareness, support and advocacy.
The Holy Spirit Women’s Society prepares soup & biscuits on a regular basis for Avenue B, 12 months of the year.
If you want to get involved, please contact the Chairperson of the Women’s Society.
Services Offered:
- Education & Training (Naloxone)
- Treatment information
- Awareness events
- Needle Distribution Program
Their wish List: Before you toss it out, think of Avenue B.
Plastic Bags, Laundry Detergent & Kitty Litter Jugs, Non-Perishable Food, Toiletries, Seasonal Clothing, Cleaning Supplies, Office Supplies, Medical Supplies
The links below will give you more information about Avenue B
Horizon’s Recovery Centre
Horizon’s Recovery Centre (formerly known as Lonewater Farm) is a long-term residential program (up to three months) for adult men (20 years of age and older) who have an addiction to alcohol, drugs, and/or gambling. This centre is located at 141 Bay Street, West Saint John, N.B.
Holy Spirit Parish Involvement
Starting in November the Women’s Society initiates a Christmas campaign for the men in recovery at Horizon Recovery Centre. Our parish has been very generous for many years by providing toiletries, Christmas candy and cookies, and other small items on their wish list. They are always so grateful for our donations.
If you want to know more about this ministry, please use the link below.
https://horizonnb.ca/services/addictions-mental-health/adult-services/recovery-centre/