One of the goals of the Human Concerns Commission is to reach out to people in need: locally, nationally, and internationally. Each year, a percentage of the general parish budget is set aside for this purpose. On behalf of the Human Concerns Commission, the Outreach Committee accepts applications for organizations in need of assistance to provide for those less fortunate.
Baby Shower
Throughout Respect Life Month in October, Shepherd of the Hills sponsors a “baby shower” for needy mothers. A baby crib is set up in church and parishioners are invited to place new baby items in the crib. Formula, toys, baby clothes, diapers, etc. are greatly appreciated. These items are shared with needy mothers in Fond du Lac and Sheboygan Counties.
Crop Walk
The annual Crop Walk is held on a Sunday during October beginning at Lakeside Park in Fond du Lac. The goal of the walk is to bring about greater awareness of human hunger in our world and local community. Participants in the walk collect pledges from family members, friends, and fellow parishioners. Monies collected go to support world hunger efforts as well as local food programs and pantries. Information on the Crop Walk can be found in the bulletin.
Communion Ministry to the Homebound
It is important to remember that some members of our parish family are homebound and residing at healthcare facilities. They are not able to attend Sunday Mass on a regular basis with the rest of our parish community. In an effort to reach out to them, volunteers are needed to distribute the Eucharist to the homebound and those in healthcare facilities. Those unable to attend Mass are grateful to receive the Eucharist and to receive a visit from a member of our parish family. Consider serving in this very important and meaningful ministry. Training is provided.
Elizabeth Ministry
Elizabeth Ministry provides resources and visits to women and families during and after pregnancies. Ministry areas include pregnancy complications, later in life pregnancies, home help after multiple births, adoptions and blending families, crisis pregnancies and special needs, grandparent support.
Hope Village - HAITI
Shepherd of the Hills Parish helps to support the orphans in Hope Village in Les Cayes, Haiti. There, Fr. Marc Boisvert and his staff care for over 600 orphaned children, getting them the food, medical care and educational/vocational training they need to help make Haiti a better place. Please visit the Hope Village website and check out Fr. Marc's blog to see what Hope Village is all about at www.freethekids.org
Human Life Chain
The Human Life Chain is celebrated on the month of October in downtown Fond du Lac. Shepherd of the Hills parishioners and area Christians of all faiths gather in the shape of a cross for an hour of silent prayer and vigil to promote the dignity of life.
Prayer Line
A group of Shepherd of the Hills parishioners has formed a prayer line to intercede for the needs of fellow parishioners and our area community. If you have a special prayer request or need, you may call the prayer line and your intention will be passed on to all members of the prayer line who will lift up your need to the Lord. Prayer requests are confidential and can be made in anonymity.
Share A Ride Program
Are you in need of a ride to and from church? Or, are you willing to give someone a ride to and from church? If so, be a part of our Share A Ride Program.
St. Vincent de Paul Society
The Shepherd of the Hills St. Vincent de Paul Society is dedicated to direct service to the poor and needy in our area. The society helps those experiencing financial hardship or those in need of food or shelter. St. Vincent de Paul sponsors annual food collections and fund drives during Thanksgiving and Holy Week. The wicker basket in the entrance of each of our churches is used for collecting non-perishable food items throughout the entire year. The St. Vincent de Paul Society is always looking for new members, men or women, to be a part of its important mission.