Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church

Outreach Ministries

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

Based on a project begun in the 1990s to support women who were undergoing treatment for breast cancer and other illnesses, the Prayer Shawl Ministry has now blossomed into a ministry that makes and gives shawls for special occasions, illness, comfort to those who are dying, caregivers, children and parents. The reasons to knit or crochet a shawl or lap blanket are as numerous as the people who knit/crochet and receive them. If you are interested in helping this group, please e-mail Sr. Kathleen or call 486-0850.

BAPTISM VISITORS

After families schedule a baptism for their infant our Baptism Visitors go to their home to deliver a gift bag and some goodies for the new family. Most Baptism Visitors make about one visit per month so if you are interested in this fun, hospitable ministry, please contact Mrs. Hubbard at the rectory.

EUCLID HUNGER CENTER

It is part of our mission to reach out to those in need everywhere. The Euclid Hunger Center provides supplemental, non-perishable groceries to Euclid residents in need. While the Euclid Hunger Center does employ one manager, it is largely operated by volunteers. Please contact the Hunger Center if you are interested in volunteering.

MEAL MINISTRY

This culinary group provides “emergency” dinners to people who need a little extra help for a short time (due to illness, a new baby, a family member’s death, etc.). It is NOT connected to St. Vincent de Paul, but rather an independent group of people who understand how a simple meal can provide nourishment and relief when your life gets turned upside down.

Our Lady of the Lake BABY CORNER

The Our Lady of the Lake Baby Corner collects items and distributes them to local non-profit assistance organizations such as St. Al's, St. Augustine, the West Side Catholic Center, the Metzenbaum Center and Birthright, which then pass them onto mothers and mothers-to-be who have very little and need so much. The bassinets located near the Church entrances are for donations of formula, diapers, wipes, bottles, new or like-new baby clothes and hygiene products for babies and mothers. Monetary donations (checks payable to Our Lady of the Lake) are always welcome and will be used to directly purchase essential items.

Parishioners of all ages are invited to join the Baby Corner committee at any time. Volunteers are needed to sort the donations, wash and sort the clothing and to deliver items. Time commitments vary depending on donations and delivery needs. Please note that strong backs are also welcome as occasionally we get larger items (cribs, child-size beds, swings, strollers, high chairs, etc.) donated and to be delivered.

MINISTRY TO THE HOMEBOUND

Each Sunday, members from this group of dedicated Eucharistic ministers bring Communion to folks unable to attend Mass. If you know someone who would like to receive Eucharist but cannot get to Mass, please call the rectory. We will make arrangements for the reception of Communion.

**If you know someone who is ill or in the hospital, we appreciate you letting the rectory know so we can pray and minister to those individuals as well.

Volunteers are always needed and the people we visit so greatly appreciate our time and company. For some, it is the only visit they get. Generally volunteers alternate months – working all Sundays one month and no Sundays the following month. Sunday visits usually take about 2 hours. There are no meetings.

PARISH HEALTH AND WELLNESS MINISTRY

This vibrant group serves the health care needs of our parish community. Most members have some association with the health care field as nurses, therapists, social workers or counselors, but no specific qualifications are required other than a willing spirit. Projects include monthly blood pressure screenings after Masses.

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY

The society's purpose is to serve the needy of our parish and beyond. Assistance offered may include food, grocery certificates, and/or emergency help with utility bills or rent. Thanksgiving and Christmas packages are prepared. Funding comes from donations of food, poor box donations and semi-annual collections. Donations may be brought to the rectory during rectory office hours. There is one brief meeting per month.

**If you are in need of emergency aid, please contact the rectory and they will connect you to the St. Vincent de Paul voicemail where you can leave a message. A volunteer will return your call as soon as they are able – usually within 2 days.
 

WELCOMING COMMITTEE

This friendly group helps to make new parishioners feel at home and encourage them to become more deeply involved in the life of the parish. By visiting the homes of those newly registered, members help parishioners experience the warmth, hospitality and love of our parish community.

Home visits are arranged at the convenience of the volunteer. There are not meetings.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

There are many, many opportunities for parishioners to serve others through our parish, neighborhood and the world. Many of our parish ministries welcome new members throughout the year. Click here to see which are in particular need of help or are currently training new members; current service projects initiated by Generations of Faith, the day school or other ministries and organizations; and seasonal opportunities. A few require training, but many are just a matter of letting someone know you are interested, observing a few times and then learning as you go. If you are interested in joining any ministry, contact the rectory and someone will be in touch.

 
Founded in God's love

Copyright © 2007-10 Our Lady of the Lake Church
19951 Lake Shore Blvd. Euclid, OH 44119
Phone: (216) 486-0850 • Fax: 216-486-0851