By TARA CONNOLLY Staff writer
“You are here today to begin a new phase in your faith journey – a phase that gives you the unique opportunity to preach the truth and to live the truth in a vibrant way. As a community of faith, your prayer and your commitment will break through the silence that stifles the world,” said Alexandra Cirko, assistant superintendent, mission and Catholic identity, Diocese of Allentown to members of the newly formed Women’s Giving Society.
More than 30 women gathered Oct. 20 at St. Mary, Kutztown to launch the society that will aim to raise awareness and funds to aid nonprofit ministries endorsed by the Diocese.
By joining together, the society will engage in collective giving, personally select the recipient ministries and have a personal impact on those in need.
The society will function in the spirit of St. Catharine of Siena, who was the 25th child born to her mother and who later refused to marry the widower of her sister after she died at age 16.
“Catharine developed a habit of giving things away, and she continually gave away her family’s food and clothing to people in need,” said Cirko.
In her writings Catharine claimed she had a “mystical marriage” to Christ and wore a ring of his flesh that only she could see.
“In her vision with Christ, she was told to re-enter public life, and to help the poor and sick. She often visited hospitals and homes of the poor and sick. She quickly attracted followers who helped her in her mission,” said Cirko.
In addition, Catharine was allegedly given the stigmata, was instrumental in persuading the pope in Avignon to return to Rome, established a monastery for women and wrote over 400 letters that eventually resulted in her being declared a Doctor of the Church.
“She was all about her Catholic identity and living the Gospel message. That’s what we are about today – to be the work of Christ and the face of Christ,” said Cirko.
“What a wonderful patroness you have. We live in a crazy world that doesn’t uphold the Gospel or the faith in many places. You are missionary disciples – just like St. Catharine was,” she said.
Ashley Russo, President of ASR Media Productions, a three-time Emmy award-winning executive producer and host of The PEAK TV and St. Luke's HealthNow, also spoke to the women about being raised in a family that always “gave back” and why women’s organizations are so important.
“As women, there are so many ways that we help each other. We come together in so many ways when it comes to faith and community. There is so much power in women who share the same faith and mission. We are so powerful when we use our strengths to better our community,” she said.
Russo also encouraged the women to “be who God meant you to be” and to know their strengths and their weaknesses as they embark on their new endeavor.
“Know what God wants and means for you to be. Be in touch when to say ‘yes’ and when to say ‘no.’ All of you will find so much joy by doing do,” she told the women.
The annual membership contribution to the Catholic Women’s Society of Giving is $350 – $300 will be put in a combined Charitable Funds Account to be distributed to chosen nonprofit ministries and $50 set aside for organizational expenses.
Individuals may purchase memberships for themselves or for others. The funds raised will be distributed as grants to qualified service organizations in the Diocese elected by society members.
Categories of membership are:
- Charity – Individual woman’s annual membership.
- Hope – Contribution made by an individual or business to sponsor a woman’s or girl’s annual membership.
- Faith – Contribution made by an individual or business in honor or memory of a woman.
To learn more or become a member, click here.
