Thursday, 18 October 2012 09:33

Bishop Michael O. Jackels circled the track with the hundreds of persons who participated in the Friend of the Poor Walk Sept. 22 at Bishop Carroll Catholic High School in Wichita to benefit the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.
Two other walks were held in the area, one at St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Andover on Sept. 16, and another on Sept. 29 at Holy Cross Parish in Hutchinson.
These three fundraisers generated thousands of dollars in pledges and donations that will ultimately help the poor in the Wichita-Andover-Hutchinson area. Participants included parishioners from All Saints, Blessed Sacrament, Holy Cross, Holy Savior, Our Lady of Guadalupe, St. Anne’s, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, St. Francis, St. Mary’s Cathedral, St. Vincent de Paul, Andover, and St. Peter, Schulte.
The Wichita walkers ranged in age from small children to a 91-year-old man. In addition to Bishop Jackels, the clergy were represented by Father Patrick Reilley, associate at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, and Father John Jirak, pastor of Blessed Sacrament.
Pat Burns, president of the Wichita Council of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul said he was thankful for the walkers “and to our benefactors who made pledges, allowing us to continue to serve the poor in our diocese. If you feel called to serve the poor in our diocese, please contact your parish conference for more information.”
This was the fifth year of the walk, which was held on the same date at scores of other locations across the United States. Participation in the Wichita-metro walks continues to grow each year. The event raises awareness of the challenges faced by the nation’s poor and raises funds allowing the society to assist those living in poverty.
When contacted by someone in need, Society of St. Vincent de Paul volunteers evaluate each client situation, and determine if assistance, such as emergency rent, utilities, gasoline, or food, is possible.