In an effort to promote social justice, the Gesu Social Concerns/Community Action Commission provides resources and compassion to people in need, volunteer opportunities for parishioners and a forum for educa­tion and discussion about social justice issues.
Jennifer Brainard, Chairperson

Elizabeth Ministry
The Elizabeth Ministry is made up of women of the parish who are willing to support other women encountering challenges or difficulties – or to celebrate a joyful time. In sharing their faith, presence and personal experiences and other resources, the Elizabeth Ministers hope to encourage other women and their families. If you are interested in learning more, contact:
Tammy Moore
Suzi Richter

Food Fund
The Food Fund provides financial support to St. Patrick’s Hunger Center and Saint Vincent de Paul Society. Donation envelopes can be found at all church entrances and once a month in the pews. For more informa­tion, contact:
Nancy Graf

Gonzaga Society
The Gonzaga Society is a new ministry formed to serve those in need or who have no other avenue ofhelp. The ministry focuses on welcoming and caring and works with the St. Vincent de Paul Society, the Knights of Columbus and other groups to see that those parishioners in need of assistance are cared for. Some of the ministry includes providing fellowship, meals, transportation, respite care and information. If you would like to be involved, are in need of assistance or know someone who may need assistance, Contact:
Kevin Brodar
Amy Resch

Honduras Mission
Twice a year, in February and June, parishioners are invited to travel with the Gesu Honduras Missionteam to serve and walk with the poor in a variety of ways. From construction projects to medical brigades – there is something for everyone. People of all ages and skill levels are welcome. For more information, contact:
Maura Dacey

Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN)
Gesu Church is a member of the Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN) – a coalition of area churches, syna­gogues, and places of worship, which provide temporary overnight housing for homeless families at periodic weekly intervals during the year. Volunteers are needed to provide meals and companionship during times when Gesu hosts IHN guests in McAuley Hall. To learn more, contact:
Nancy Coburn
Patrice Morley

Outreach Coordinator
The Outreach Coordinator serves as a liaison between parishioners and community organizations who need help with volunteers and donations; plans parish-wide events, including Gesu’s annual Service Day(December 6, 2008) and Fair Trade Fest (April 18-19, 2009); and sends outreach e-mail notices to interested parishioners. If you are interested in receiving the outreach information, contact:
Meg Wilson

Respect Life



The Respect Life Committee is a group of diverse individuals from the parish with a willingness to create a community that respects all life, because it was chosen by God to be created and must be respected and protected from conception to a natural death. Efforts include: educational programs, prayer, recognition of Respect Life Month in October, involvement with the March for Life, and fund raisers and volunteer aware­ness for local pregnancy centers and healing ministries. For more information, contact:
Debbie Bruening

St. Patrick’s Hunger Center
A group of Gesu parishioners provide and serve a hot meal once a month at St. Patrick’s Hunger Center. If you would like to volunteer, contact:
Martin Kilfoyle

St. Vincent de Paul Society
The membership of this society is made up of Gesu parishioners whose work is to assist the needy of our par­ish family and support the diocesan efforts to help the poor of the city. The Society is a small group of people who respond to the Pastor’s request for assistance. If you would like to be involved, contact:
Joe Harrison

Sleeping Bag Ministry
The Sleeping Bag Ministry includes women of diverse faiths who meet Wednesday mornings to make sleep­ing bags for homeless men and also for women and children at the West Side Catholic Shelter. For more information, contact:
Eileen Beegle

Wellness Ministry
The Wellness Ministry provides an opportunity for healthcare professionals to volunteer in various wellness programs. Our projects depend on the needs of parishioners and the availability of professionals. We provide monthly blood pressure screenings, a health fair, flu vaccinations and a telephone referral service for health-related questions (see phone number below). Health literature can also be found next to the Ushers’ Room in the church. For more information or to volunteer, contact:
Elaine Drage
Mattie Walters