Breaking Bread, Sharing Love

​The Spiritual Mission behind the Food Pantry's partnership with Ss. Peter & Lambert Parish

“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have; God is pleased by sacrifices of that kind.” - Hebrews 13:16

What began with a question – How can we break ourselves and share our blessings with those in need? – has turned into a long-running collaboration. Over the last eight months, Saints Peter and Lambert Parish in Skokie, IL has become a cherished partner of the Food Pantry of Mary, Mother of God Parish.

In July alone, the Food Pantry, located at St. Thomas of Canterbury church, served over 1,400 individuals. Stocking the shelves for these clients is only possible with the help of the larger Catholic community.

Associate Pastor Fr. Roncy Braganza, sfx. said the idea to partner with the Food Pantry came about because parishioners wanted to make less for themselves and share with those in need. Fr. Braganza and his fellow priests regularly reflect on how faith is made visible through acts of service and generosity during their preaching. 

Fr. Braganza emphasized that God wants us to understand the value of sharing. “As Christians, we are called to mirror Jesus’ generosity, living as He did by continually giving and serving others,” he said.

Fr. Braganza said Ss. Peter and Lambert Parish does other charity throughout the year, but their work with the Food Pantry is truly special. Every first Sunday, the Parish collects pantry goods. A reminder is put in the bulletin the week before and then the donations are collected at both of their parish churches. All the bags and boxes are gathered by staff member Felix Rojo who coordinates the pickup with the manager of the Food Pantry, Br. Ayub Mwenda OFM, Conv.​

“We’re grateful that the Food Pantry is accessible to the community,” said Fr. Braganza. “It’s truly making a difference by supporting those in need.”

Mary, Mother of God Parish would like to thank the parishioners of Ss. Peter and Lambert Parish, Skokie for answering Christ’s call to serve with their on-going generosity as well as Pastor Fr. Anthony Castello, sfx. Associate Pastors Fr. John Atoyebi, Fr. Roncy Braganza, sfx., Pastoral Associate Sr. Kathy Maloney, and Felix Rojo for their continued support. Saints Peter and Lambert, pray for us!