Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes

One of the guidelines for the Team at the St. Francis Inn is that of inviting others to share in its ministry. We have been overwhelmed by the support of so many people here in Philadelphia. However, we have been even more humbled by the support of so many of our friends and family throughout the country. We know that people have been praying for our health and safety during our time here. Others have sent us socks, underwear and toiletries to be given to our guests. Some folks have sent cash contributions, and a few have given of their time and energy to come and work for a number of days here at the Inn. For all of this support, we are truly grateful.

However, this week we had the most amazing gift sent to the Inn through us. Our friends the Maryvale Sisters have a daycare in Vale, NC. Each year the children host a walkathon for a worthy cause. The Sisters decided that this year the recipient of the walkathon would be the St. Francis Inn. They had as their theme for the walk the miracles of the loaves and fishes. They wanted the children to understand that even if only a small amount of food or money is present, it can be multiplied into a larger amount through the grace of God. All of the children, even the babies in strollers, participated in 10 laps around the drive at the daycare. Many parents and grandparents walked as well. On Saturday we received a certified letter from Maryvale. Enclosed was a check to the Inn in the amount of $4230! The team received the check and pictures of the event on Monday morning. When they saw the amount they were truly amazed. Sister Mary said they needed the children to do all of their fundraising. Best of all, the money will be matched by an anonymous benefactor, so in reality twice the amount was raised.

All of us here give thanks and praise to the Maryvale community, the children, and the hundreds of donors who gave to the walkathon, all for the honor and glory of God.