Passing on the Opposite Side

My favorite lunch spot is Curious Palate at Santa Monica Place, and a close friend and parishioner joined me this week, sitting outside. At the table beside us, a woman sat alone with a small dog, a few bags of belongings, and a set of crutches. She seemed unsheltered and her leg was recently amputated just above the knee. Although there were many small bandages as a makeshift dressing, it was clear that the wound had yet to heal. Yet, we continued to sit there as our food arrived.

There were two other women across the courtyard, and judging by their makeup, apparel, accessories, and car keys—I would never have imagined what happened next. They came over, spoke with the woman in distress, and offered her a ride to a doctor—to Cedars-Sinai in West Hollywood, no less!

I was moved and humbled by the action and response of those good Samaritans and slightly ashamed I didn’t get more involved, especially as an employee of the Church.

St. Monica has myriad ways to take action: through outreach ministries like Green Team and Loaves & Fishes, and pastoral care like Bereavement and Stephen Ministry. Even if we cannot directly provide help through Hope at the Door, we have strong partnerships with local organizations who accept our referrals.

Next week, we welcome Fr. Bob Dowd to share the story of how our parishioners took action several years ago at Holy Cross Dandora, beginning with a few beds to create a maternity ward. That ward grew and expanded with a pharmacy, a clinic, an operating room, and just this year—is now considered a hospital.

We may not often drop everything and drive a stranger more than an hour round-trip. Still, your offertory gifts not only support our parish community, but multiplies and creates action where it is needed most, serving those in need. Thank you for that response, for getting involved, and for your great care.