Meeting new people and volunteering in a new place can sometimes feel daunting. You may even feel little nervous. That is exactly how Fr. Jack felt! Once he stepped inside the St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store in Dallas, that all disappeared. He was quickly greeted by other friendly volunteers who were eager to say hello. As he rolled up his sleeves, Joyce, the manager on duty, gave him a tour of the facility. She explained in detail the work being done at the SVdP Thrift Store and the many, many people it serves on a daily basis. Many come in seeking emergency services: food, clothing, money for bills. These volunteers strive to take care of every single one of them.

Soon, Fr. Jack was digging in piles of clothing. SVdP Thrift Store has high standards - no stains, no piling, no tears. Preparing each piece of clothing and hanging it to be sold was not just easy work, but also fun as he worked along his staff member Amanda, Seminarian Joshua, and his new found friends.

The day was an enjoyable way to return to the root of Christianity: service, discipleship, mission. What a way to refresh and renew the mission of our own St. John Vianney: “to follow the servant example of Christ and nurture His loving spirit”.

Not only did Fr. Jack serve those who come seeking help through the SVdP Thrift Store, he and Amanda and Joshua earned money for our St. John Vianney St. Vincent de Paul Society. You see, every hour that it is served by one of our parishioners earns a $15 donation to our own SJV St. Vincent de Paul. The help just keeps compiling. That day $90 was made to be donated.

Volunteering at St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store is an easy and enjoyable way to give back to the community. Twice! Check out the information on our website. Give them a call. Make a plan to help. You will be absolutely happy that you did. Fr. Jack did, and you can too!