Collecting gently used winter clothing for families in need

A few weeks ago, Barbara Magee brought to our attention at both services an article from The Boston Globe which described the fear experienced by parishioners of the Church of San Lucas, Chelsea, following the murderous attacks in El Paso and Gilroy, CA against immigrants as well as the increase in ICE raids. Barbara had prepared a beautiful banner for the Church of San Lucas and invited us all to add messages of caring. In response, a resolution also was passed at the following vestry meeting to declare the Church of the Good Shepherd a “safe haven,” a welcoming place for persons vilified because of their immigration status, the color of their skin, their gender, their national origin, their religion, their age, their disability, their language or whom they love. In that spirit, contact was made with Father Edgar Gutierrez-Duerte, vicar of the Church of San Lucas, to see how we might assist his parishioners. He noted that they will be in need of men’s and children’s winter clothing. We will be holding a men’s and children’s gently used clothing collection for them the first two Sundays in December. Early notice is being given in case you are sorting last year’s clothing as the season changes. Although the collection will take place formally the first two Sundays in December, if you are anxious to get rid of the clothing before then, please contact Carolyn Gutierrez to arrange for earlier collection.