Apostle Build 2021 is a go

Faithful asked to provide shelter for the needy

By Bonnie Toombs
The Diocese of Wichita is again offering the faithful a chance to engage in one of the corporal works of mercy: providing shelter for the homeless.

The diocese will sponsor a Wichita Habitat for Humanity home build from July 7 through Sept. 4.

It’s a great, concrete way to put your faith into action. An Apostles Build project calls people to get up from the kneelers of the church, to go out, and to serve as the original apostles did. Working on a build allows people of faith to be the body of Christ in the world. The Apostles Build project also has the potential to build community among groups and parishes that have never before worked together.

The build is a way to fulfill the diocesan Pastoral Plan to “respond to Christ’s call so as to become fully alive as missionary disciples.”

The diocese will again partner with Wichita Habitat for Humanity, a ministry that seeks to bring God’s love into action by building homes, communities, and hope. Those purchasing the houses through Wichita Habitat for Humanity work alongside volunteers as they complete their required “sweat equity.” Homebuyers also take 40 hours of financial literacy and home maintenance classes before purchasing their homes on an affordable, zero percent mortgage. These aspects of Habitat’s homeownership program prepare homebuyers for success.

Working to build these homes is a great experience and gives those participating the opportunity to meet the family that will make the house we build their home.

This year’s Apostle Build home will once again be in Wichita Habitat’s Rock the Block revitalization neighborhood, an area bounded by Hillside to Grove and Ninth to 13th streets. This year’s project will be the fifth home in that neighborhood sponsored by the Catholic Diocese of Wichita and built by its volunteers.

Wichita Habitat for Humanity and its partners have built more than 60 safe, affordable houses in the Rock the Block neighborhood since 2014.
Toombs is director of the Respect Life and Social Justice Office.

Know how to swing a hammer? Want to give?

This year’s Apostle Build, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays from July 7 through Sept. 4, needs volunteers and financial assistance. Why not gather 15 of your friends, family, fellow parishioners, or colleagues to help build a home? Email [email protected] to reserve your day to build, or call 316-269-3935 to talk to Sheri or Bonnie. To make a financial donation contact Mike Wescott at [email protected].