Outreach

In October of 2022 we introduced Open Hearts Ministry: 
a Saint Michael parish ministry based on the love of Jesus Christ and the Church’s commitment to racial justice as a life issue. 

The Open Hearts leadership team is excited to share its mission statement: To joyfully open wide our hearts to accept and live out the Gospel truth that each person is made in the image of God. We humbly answer this call by advocating the sacred dignity of one another in ways that draw us all closer to God. 

Bereavement support is available to individuals and families in an effort to ease the burden of their grief. St. Michael’s hosts a program called, “Beginning the Grief Journey,” presented by Merrimack Valley Hospice, for those who are experiencing the loss of a loved one.

Participation: 6-week programs offered in the spring and fall.

Contact: Patricia Boutilier 978-686-4050

This is a monthly support group for those who care for a loved one affected by illness, memory loss or disability. The group offers the opportunity to take time out for yourself, to meet others going through similar experiences, and to learn about community resources.

Participation: First Thursday, September—June, 1-2pm

Contact: Patricia Boutilier 978-686-4050

The mission of this ministry is to bring Christ in the Eucharist, to those unable to attend Sunday liturgies due to illness, infirmity or advanced age.

Participation: Monthly or weekly visits.

Witness: “I thought I was going to give of myself to others. Instead, I receive so much from those I visit! It’s such an honor!” - T

Contact:
Homebound - Patricia Boutilier 978-686-4050
Nursing Homes - Colleen Contrada 978-686-4050

This is a grand, coordinated effort for the purpose of bringing the whole parish together as the Body of Christ! The annual parish picnic festival is held on the second Sunday of September, beginning with Mass on the North Andover Common, followed by a cookout and numerous activities for people of all ages!

Volunteering: Lots of people of all ages and talents needed!

Contact: Receptionist 978-686-4050

St. Elizabeth Hospitality Ministry provides a warm welcome of hospitality, light refreshment and a chance to chat with fellow parishioners at our many parish events, such as Mass of Anointing or Mercy Meals. The members of this ministry may choose to bake, or buy food items, or may choose to participate in the set-up or clean up of the event, make coffee, serve food or maintain our supplies. Below represents a few regularly scheduled events of this ministry.

A NIGHT IN BETHLEHEM: Our annual December event, serving festive sweets and good cheer!

WELCOME SUNDAY DONUTS TEAM: On Sundays, October-June, the members of the Donuts Team pick up the donuts, set up the donuts, coffee, and juice and clean-up for this popular gathering. Volunteers assist at either the 8am or 10am Masses.

Contact: Pat Riley 978-686-4050

The Via Dolorosa Bereavement Group meets once a month for parents who are at different stages of grief aftter the loss of a child and in need of support. Periodic speaker programs are also offered. Individual support and referral information is available as well.

Participation: Monthly meetings during the school year.

Contact: Patricia Boutilier 978-686-4050

Over 70 parishioners provide food for over 200 guests, served at Bread & Roses. The beautiful work being done at Bread & Roses is reflected in their Mission Statement: "As we become providers and receivers of bread as well as roses, our dream is to be a community where the hungry are fed, the homeless are sheltered, the naked clothed, the stranger welcomed, the
prisoner visited, and all are accepted without judgment.”

Witness: “20 years ago I started by sharing in my daughters’ community service project and here I am, today, enjoying the feeling of giving back to the community and serving those in need.” - K

Participation: Supply a small part of the meal every second Saturday of the month.

Contact: Diane Lafond at 978-686-4050

Prayer shawls, lap robes, baby blankets or prayer squares are crocheted or knitted for new babies, the homebound, sick, those who recently lost a loved one or someone who is just in need of a hug from God. Praying while creating and giving a Prayer Shawl lets all who receive one know that they are not alone. We will teach those interested how to knit or crochet.

Participation: Come any 1st or 3rd Wednesday, 9am-12noon, in the pastoral center!

Witness: “The caring that the other knitters have for one another – they are so kind – it amazes me! As we are creating each item, we know that whoever receives it will feel better because it’s made with love and compassion.” - J

Contact: 978-686-4050

Contact: Jim or Kathy 978-686-4050

The members of the Video Ministry take turns taping the Saturday 4pm Mass for broadcast on the North Andover cable channel so that the homebound know that they are very much a part of the parish community. The team also tries to be available to tape other parish events on request. Members are encouraged to join the NACAM membership base in order to have access to their studio and equipment. Training is available to anyone high school age and up.

Volunteering: One Mass every six weeks.

Contact: Receptionist 978-686-4050