The History of National Service Day dates back to about  2003 when the National Coordinating Committee of the UAC suggested that we promote a Day of Service in our Various Groups and Cenacles.  St. Vincent Pallotti's birthday falls on April 21st, very close to Earth Day. The idea was to mark St. Vincent's birthday each year with a united effort throughout the country.  What better way to honor our inspired leader than to present him with a gift of service to others in his name.  

This year because the date falls on Holy Thursday and that week is already a special Lenten week of Prayer, we are anticipating the week by having a Potluck  April 10 in preparation for the week. We will be gathering for a potluck dinner after the 10:00 Mass on Sunday April 10th in the Parish Center at St. Vincent Pallotti Parish in Milwaukee.

We invite anyone who wishes to join us as a Pallottine Family share a meal and conversation about how, in our fragmented society we can help heal serve to build the community throgh some act of service during these days.  Maybe it will not be exactly on the birthday of Vincent but it can be according to his vision -- the Love of Christ urges us on.

What kind of Service?

• Helping the blind.
• Visiting the sick, lonely or homebound.
• Shopping for someone.
• Picking up litter in a public place.
• Drive someone to the store and doctor.
• Baby-sitting.
• Praying with someone.

These are only examples drawn from what was done in the past. Use your imagination and gather friends and family to help you.  St. Vincent always looked at the needs of people in his own time and tried to respond to them.

 The Potluck On April 10 after the 10:00 will be a chance to share  what we intend to do for our Service this year, and simply enjoy being part of the Pallottine Family.

In order to coordinate our efforts and be sure to have enough food prepared for the evening we ask you to contact either:

Fr. Greg Serwa at gpserwa@yahoo.com or Betty Reichertz at muffybearbar@yahoo.com