“We are standing on the shoulders of those who have gone before us."
We at St. James recognize the gifts of our senior members and realize that without their spirit, courage, and faith there would be no parish today.
St. James's commitment to the elderly has been a priority since 1972, when two Mercy sisters recognized the needs of senior members in the area and decided to do something about it. Today, thirty-seven years later, the ministry is still thriving, as the parishioners strive to meet the needs of this group.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AND SERVICES
Pastoral Care
The Senior Ministry of Saint James Parish offers pastoral care services to the homebound and those who live in the area's nursing homes and senior buildings. If you are in need of pastoral care, please contact Erin Makowski, 312-842-1919 x206.
Communion Visits
Compassionate Companions from the parish bring Communion as requested to the homebound who reside in their own homes or apartments, senior buildings or nursing homes. If you would like to receive communion, please contact Joise Bertucci josbertucci@gmail.com or Fr. John Edmunds, ST 312-842-1919.
Home Visits
Many St. James parishioners visit the homebound Seniors in their homes, nursing homes and senior buildings, bringing them friendship, conversation and love. In addition, several parishioners take the Eucharist to three area nursing homes on a monthly basis.
Legal Assistance
Two lawyers, Mary Hegarty and Mary Ann Kowols, Park Ridge, IL, come to St. James about four times a year to assist the seniors with any legal matters, (e.g., wills, power of attorney, etc.) Mary and Mary Ann have been donating their services for about 30 years.
Giving Tree
Each Advent the Giving Tree is placed in the back of church to give St. James parishioners an opportunity to remember the seniors and let them know how loved and appreciated they are. This exchange of gifts brings happiness and blessings to the recipients of the gifts, as well.
