At Saint Brigid, we are blessed to have a vibrant ministry for widows and widowers called the “New Beginnings Ministry”. Many widows and widowers from our parish come together for dinner, community, and fellowship in our parish hall on the 1st Thursday of the month. They invite widows and widowers from other parishes. Many of these widows and widowers were married for more than 30, 40, or 50 years. During their marriages, they have lived; they have loved; they have served; they have forgiven. Many of them remember the first time they met their spouses, their wedding day, the birth of their first child, and other important events in their marriages. They fondly recall the joy and warmth they shared with their spouses in so many special ways, and the many sacrifices they made as they journeyed together in faith.
We appreciate the active participation of the widows and widowers in our faith community. As reported in the media outlet “Northwest Catholic”, journalist Sarah Bartel noted that Pope Francis encouraged widows to spend their remaining years purposefully, growing in love and prayer. Our Late Holy Father stated, “The better we live on this earth, the greater the happiness we will be able to share with our loved ones in heaven.”
Ms. Bartel also noted, “Widows have an important place in the Church. They have important work to do here, people to love and witness to give. They have a difficult cross to bear, but a loving Savior to help them carry it.” She also indicated that “the Church offers comfort for the men and women left behind when a beloved spouse dies. Widows and widowers have a life full of dignity, purpose and mission. As Vatican II declared, ‘Widowhood accepted bravely as a continuation of the marriage vocation should be esteemed by all.’”
Recently we celebrated a Mass in our Day Chapel for the deceased spouses of our widows and widowers. Approximately seventy widows and widowers were in attendance. After the Mass, reflecting a fine example of collaborative ministry, the Men of Saint Brigid and the Knights of Columbus provided food and beverages, and served a special catered dinner for these widows and widowers. Parishioner Pat Sallarulo and his group of entertainers sang for all present.
We thank these groups and their leaders for their assistance to our “New Beginnings Ministry” as we reflect on the words of Our Holy Father and continue to strive to make our widows and widowers an integral part of our faith community.