Like the barley loaves and fishes that the child brought to Jesus and He multiplied, the donations of the children from area schools, multiplied for us into an abundance of food.
St. Jeanne Jugan, while asking for donations to care for the elderly poor, came across an impatient benefactor who asked her why she burdened herself with all those old people. Jeanne replied, “We shall share them, Sir. You will provide for them and I will care for their needs.” We truly believe that if we are faithful to our mission of caring for the poor, God will provide. And He did, through the wonderful students, teachers and staff of Our Lady of the Wayside School in Arlington Heights; St. Catherine Laboure School in Glenview; St. Collette’s School in Rolling Meadows; St. Joseph’s School in Round Lake; and St. Patrick’s School in Wadsworth.
At each stop, the children lined the hallways with the boxes of food they collected and joyfully helped us load our van. Jubilant smiles burst forth on their faces. The air was filled with the excitement of the children knowing that they were doing a loving act of kindness of helping those in need.
It is always touching to see God working through these children. God has manifested His love for us through this overwhelming outpouring of generosity! Our pantry shelves are filling up with much needed food supplies. This kindness will go a long way in providing for our elderly Residents. We share St. Jeanne Jugan’s grateful heart and say, “We must always say ‘Blessed be God! Thank you, my God! Glory be to God!’ ”
Yes Virginia, There are Still Miracles Today: The Multiplication of the Loaves …