Generous giving of our treasure, time and talent is a hall mark of Saint Matthew. We would not be who we are; we could not Live the Love without all of us sharing God’s generosity to us. Often that generosity is given quietly and in the background. Here is just one story of quiet generosity.
Paul Otto is a long time member of Saint Matthew. He has served as a Eucharistic Minister for 15 or more years, taking consecrated bread and wine to members who unable to travel to Saint Matthew for worship and communion. He relates,
I started doing this with Lou Naylor and we were both trained by Ingrid. Then I made visits with my wife Anne. We both loved it. Since she passed away I have continued by myself.
There’s a four page devotion we use as Eucharistic Ministers. I say the prayers, and they can say part aloud, or say it to themselves. It is a pleasure to be with them, to hear, and talk and listen. You have to be a good listener.
Anne and I both loved doing this. We all see most of the people we know every Sunday in church. But we don’t see those who are confined to bed or who are sick. It is a pleasure to bring them company and communion.
I now take care of one of our members who is in a wheel chair. We talk once or twice a week. Well, mainly I listen. They open up a little. We share memories. It is always a pleasure to me.