Parish Social Ministries

• Peace and Justice
Members meet once a month to plan how to organize and/or educate the community regarding Catholic Social Teaching. This ministry includes projects, e.g. clothing drives, pro-life activities, speakers, to introduce global Church issues.

• Counseling and Referral
This specialized work is carried out at the Father Graham Center. Persons seeking help are guided in the direction that best fulfills their needs.

• Food Pantry
Located in the Father Graham Center, it provides food and necessities to all people regardless of affiliation, and is a constant source of help to needy families.

• Furniture
This group of men picks up used furniture. Donated furniture is stored locally and used to assist furnishing homes in the Massapequas and in Wyandanch.

• Ad Hoc Committee
Members write notes of welcome to the families of newly Baptized babies, and condolence letters to grieving families. This committee also assists in the planning and hosting of events for the Bereavement Group. The committee requires a commitment of only six hours out of one month during the year.

• Quillters/Afghaners
Members of this group create blankets and quilts for babies and children with AIDS. No experience is necessary, only a willingness to learn quilting, knitting, or crocheting. Contact: Marilyn Sedlak 795 5820.

• Unemployment
Retired persons offer their expertise, time, and talent to those who are unemployed or underemployed. They link persons with jobs and help people learn resume preparation and interviewing skills.

• Budgeting and Debt Management Counseling Services
This professional group offers advice and assistance to anyone who has problems managing their finances; needs help getting or keeping a small business afloat; needs to defend any foreclosures of their home. Fees charged, if any, are determined on a case-by- case basis. Private consultation may be arranged to take place in the home of the client, or in the Outreach Office. Seminars are offered at reduced fees.

• Transportation
Members of this ministry provide transportation for persons requiring transportation for medical or shopping purposes. Members of this group also respond to "emergency needs".

• Blood Drive
Once a year in June, the parishioners donate blood to assist the local blood banks.

• Christmas Fair Craft Group
This group creates hand made items to be sold at the annual Christmas Fair. This group was formerly called the "sew and sews".

Social Support Groups

• Friendly Visitors
The members of this group spread God’s love to others with their words and presence. At home visitors establish caring warm conversation with the individual they are visiting. The members desire to both listen and talk to their new friend to bring that person closer to God.

• Nursing Home Visitors
The members of the group have a desire to bring joy and spirituality to the elderly. Through prayer and conversation, this group brings companionship and hope to the residents of the Parkview Nursing Home.
• Starting Over
Starting over is a group of mature, single adults who meet on the third Sunday of each month in the Rectory Meeting Room, in a social climate.

• Mothers’ Group
This group offers hospitality, a sense of community and support as well as help to each other and Outreach, with events, babysitting, clothes and toys. Meetings are held 10:30 to 12 noon, Wed., Thurs., and Fri., at the Father Graham Center.

• Hospital Visitation
Compassionate people, who listen well, visit the sick within the community and in hospitals.

• Bereavement
Members of this group are supportive of all persons experiencing the loss of a loved one. Widows and widowers meet for 10 weekly sessions, in the spring and fall, held in an evening and Wednesday afternoon at the Father Graham Center.

• Adoption Group
Members of this group have already adopted or wish to adopt a child. They come together to exchange ideas, provide support, listen to speakers, and mingle socially.

• Healing
A Time for Healing is a support group for people affected by suicide.

• Retired Couples Group
This group fosters social activities for retired couples. The group sponsors luncheons, picnics, and birthday celebrations throughout the year.