by Pat McGuire ’14
The summer of 2013 was a very industrious one for service at 1911 West 30th. First, the Saint Joseph of Arimathea Pallbearer Ministry served a very busy summer serving the funerals of those who had no one else. It truly was a privilege for me to be able to serve with fellow Pallbearers and carry the caskets of men and women to their final resting places.
During this summer, I personally served four funerals for military veterans. These experiences were each a unique honor, each very different. The first one I served, there were only two family members able to attend the service; at the second, a large family that had more of a celebratory manner; at the third, a group of religious sisters attended; and the fourth was served at the Ohio Western Reserve Cemetery. To me, carrying these veterans to their final resting place is the ultimate act of service I could do for those willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
The magnitude of the service that this ministry does for others is difficult to comprehend. This summer the Pallbearer ministry, started by the quintessential Man for Others, Mr. Jim Skerl ‘74, served its 1250th funeral. This number speaks volumes to the type of leader and man Mr. Skerl is but also to the “Man for Others” attitude at Saint Ignatius. Laying to rest 1,250 souls sums up the service we do at Saint Ignatius and in particular this great ministry: a dedication to continue serving, even those who are no longer living.
Congratulations and thank you to all those leaders, adult companions, and students who have been an integral part of this great service ministry.
I would also be remiss not to mention the continued success of Labre. Again, Mr. Skerl has shown his devotion to service, Saint Ignatius, and, most of all, God. Mr. Skerl has continue to serve the homeless in and around Cleveland even during the difficulties in his life. He is a true Man for Others. Thanks Mr. Skerl.
Last but not least, a huge thank you goes out to our 2012-2013 Alumni Volunteers. These volunteers devoted last school year to assisting these ministries and, of course, the many other initiatives under the Christian Action Team. Your devotion is very much appreciated.
But dynamic leaders like Mr. Skerl and the Alumni Volunteers can’t single handedly make the service programs great without the students that allow these programs to even be possible. Every Thursday the Christian Action Team meets after school in room 227 to help these students keep Ignatius service going strong. Be there.
