Goodness, what a week it has been.
As I reflect on the past few days, I am struck by the moments of challenge, crisis, hope, and celebration—many of which unfolded simultaneously across our service area.
Just a few days ago, more than 100 golfers gathered for an outing to benefit the Samaritan Center, our transitional housing program for families experiencing homelessness. The outing was wildly successful. While they were on the greens, a pipe began leaking at the center. That situation quickly escalated, and before the week was over, we were relocating families to emergency hotel placements.
Our staff responded with compassion, care, sensitivity, and professionalism, executing contingency plans with precision. Our families responded with remarkable grace and resilience—grounded, I believe, in both their trust in our team and the reality that their lived experiences have made them incredibly adept at navigating uncertainty and crisis. There is something deeply humbling about knowing that a space we've created, intended to offer safety and stability instead became another unexpected challenge for our residents.
At the same time, staff and colleagues from across the Diocese were working tirelessly to organize a humanitarian aid initiative for our brothers and sisters in Cuba. Within our organization, many employees, board members, volunteers, and the families we serve have personal ties to the crisis unfolding just 90 miles away. I worried about the scale, logistics, and strain such an effort might place on our organization—but how could we not respond with hope and compassion? Once again, our staff, volunteers, diocesan partners, and donors rose to the occasion with overwhelming support. Their response reflected true charity, compassion, and a deep commitment to our mission.
This week tested my leadership, patience, and creativity—and more. Yet it also strengthened my resolve and deepened my pride and gratitude for our staff, our diocesan colleagues, our volunteers, and our donors. I am especially in awe of those we serve, who continue to place their faith and trust in us even in moments of uncertainty.
This week reaffirmed why we do this work—and that we cannot do it alone. For those who are vulnerable, struggling, and burdened by circumstances beyond their control, we remain committed to being present and responding with compassion and dignity. Whether they are families we know or those we may never meet, we will continue to offer help and hope. Even in moments of chaos, we remain steadfast in our mission.
