‘Preach the gospel at all times, and if necessary, use words.’ This profound sentiment, often attributed to St. Francis of Assisi, beautifully captures the mission of Acts 4 Ministry. Whether or not St. Francis himself said these words, they embody the spirit of spreading Jesus' love through action—a spirit that is at the heart of Acts 4 Ministry's work.
As a faith-based organization serving the greater Waterbury area, Acts 4 Ministry provides essential support to individuals and families in financial distress. By meeting their most basic needs—clothing, furniture, housewares, hygiene products, school supplies, and more—the organization offers hope and dignity to those facing challenges. Thanks to the generosity of donors and volunteers like you, Acts 4 served close to 7,000 families last year, extending compassion and care regardless of race, religion, or social status.
One of the most important aspects of Acts 4 to me is its unwavering commitment to inclusivity. There is no litmus test for religious affiliation among those we serve. This mirrors the teaching of the Parable of the Good Samaritan, which reminds us to show mercy and compassion to all, irrespective of their background.
I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of Acts 4’s work. I remember delivering a bed to a family whose young son had been sleeping on a small inflatable pool. On another occasion, I watched a young mother and her two daughters, ages 14 and 16, help our delivery team carry a truckload of furniture up two flights of exterior stairs on a sweltering summer day. When I remarked to the 16-year-old that I had never seen a family work so hard to assist, she replied, "My mother says that if people are going to help you, you also have to help yourself."
As we enter this special time of year, many organizations are sending out appeal letters. What would an appeal letter be without an appeal? The reality is simple: when we help our neighbors, we make a difference. So I invite you to join us in making that difference together. Our communities thrive when we inspire acts of love and kindness. Isn’t that what Jesus calls us to do? "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25:40)
Wishing you and your loved ones a joyous and blessed holiday season!
