The Bishop's Committee Visitors will hold an inspirational day of reflection on Thursday, May 12, at St. Philip the Apostle Parish at 950 Losson Road in Cheektowaga.  Sister Mary Johnice Rzadkiewicz, CSSF, is will be the speaker at this gathering that begins at 9:30 a.m. and concludes at 2 p.m.

Sister Johnice accepted the challenge to become a "prophetic witness to a world in need of healing" with the birth of the Response to Love Center ministry in Buffalo.  

In 1985, Sister Johnice opened the doors of this ministry that serves poverty-stricken individuals and families emotionally deprived, spiritually poor, physically battered, isolated, wounded and broken.

Services offered at the site include a food pantry, dining room and thrift shops. Special invitations are extended to the guests for a Thanksgiving and Christmas meal, and to the youth for a summer poverty awareness experience.

There is also a service to veterans for training and career counseling, to foreign students for classes in TASC and English as a Second Language, and to those in need of access to health care and advocacy, Sister's Care Center. Sister Johnice's vision is to encourage self-sufficiency and make the community a safe and prosperous place to live.

The day will include liturgy in the morning. Participants are asked to bring a brown bag lunch. Coffee, tea and desserts will be provided.  There is no fee. A goodwill offering is suggested to support the Bishop's Committee Visitor's Ministry.  

Contributions are gladly accepted in the form of health and beauty aid items such as soap, deodorant, hygiene items, shampoo, combs, brushes, toothpaste, toothbrushes and gently used costume jewelry that will benefit the men, women and children who are served at Response to Love Center.  Donations are greatly appreciated, but never required.  

For more information call the Office of Family Life Ministries at 716-847-2210.