One day at a time: Precious Blood Companions serve meals, share prayer
“The land will never lack for needy persons; that is why I command you: ‘Open your hand freely to your poor and to your needy kin in your land.’” Deuteronomy 15:11
St. Gaspar del Bufalo said, “It is necessary to send out workers everywhere, so that the earth will be cleansed in the Divine Blood.” Inspired by our founder’s vision, our community includes priests, brothers, and lay people, who unite in Precious Blood spirituality. Precious Blood lay associates, called Companions, serve and minister in a variety of ways and communities, sharing their spirituality with those they encounter.
Among the service projects undertaken by Companions in St. Joseph, Missouri, is preparing, serving, and sharing a meal each month with the residents of Haven House, a home for chronically homeless men.
“We find it an uplifting opportunity to share our Precious Blood hospitality with these brothers ‘at the margins,’” says Companion Nancy Clisbee. Prior to the meal, everyone gathers for prayer. “Among the Companions and the folks that are there for dinner, there is total reverence and total silence, and you can just see the need in those folks when that prayer begins. It’s really a touching time,” she says.
Haven House is operated by the nonprofit Community Missions Corporation, a faith-based organization that works to eliminate chronic homelessness in northwest Missouri. Eighteen men live in semi-private rooms, receiving shelter and food as well as support. They also operate a nearby step-up facility called Juda House, which houses 16 men who have been diagnosed with a disability and are taking steps toward caring for themselves and earning income.
After the prayer, plates are loaded with beef burgers and sides, plenty for everyone to have seconds and thirds, and everyone eats together. Companion Connie Swymeler says, “We need the friendship, the prayer, food, and respect that our common table provides. Volunteers and residents eat at the same table and share during our meal.”
Companion Peggy Dillon organizes the project, carrying on the work of her friend and fellow Companion, Carol Heckman, who died in 2019. Known for her heart for service, Carol began the project shortly after the house opened in 2009. Peggy says, “They always seem so grateful. I remember one young fellow who never spoke but just nodded his head when asked which items he wanted for dinner. Thinking he maybe couldn’t speak, I was taken aback when he followed me out one night and was able to somewhat stutter through a heartfelt thank you and a smile. I knew then that what we were doing was appreciated and made them feel loved.”
Homelessness in St. Joseph is an ongoing and growing concern. With room for only 18 men, Haven House provides for only a tiny fraction of the need. Peggy references Mother Teresa, who said, “Never worry about numbers. Help one person at a time and always start with the person nearest you.”
Peggy says, “It’s hard when you see people laying in parks and sleeping on benches. We can do a little bit. We can do a lot of little things that help promote a good feeling within them.”
Nancy agrees. “I think for that little bit of time, we can show them that we cared enough to come there to prepare a nice meal for them and visit with them like they were our blood brothers. They’re our family members.”
“A fair number have gone through AA or those other types of programs,” says Companion Kris Girard. “They do take one day at a time. We’re there for that day, for that moment in their time. And I’m just grateful that we’re there to give them food for the day, to sustain them to the next.”