Bishop Alfred Schlert marks the anniversary of his Episcopal Ordination each year by dedicating the day to a service project.
This year, on Aug. 31, the ninth anniversary of his Ordination, he chose to serve at the Community Café Kitchen that Catholic Charities operates at Immaculate Conception BVM, Allentown, offering support to individuals experiencing food insecurity.
Upon his arrival, Catholic Charities staff and volunteers warmly welcomed him and presented a cake in honor of his years of faithful and compassionate service to parishioners, clergy, and all those in need of the Church’s support.
Those who enter the Community Café often say that they are struck by the care and hospitality on display. Catholic Charities staff and volunteers typically prepare and serve a three-course lunch for every guest.
On this special day, tables were set with pretzel nuggets and mustard alongside Caprese salad as appetizers. Lunch featured a hearty selection of meat, potatoes, vegetables, bread, dessert, and fruit. Guests also shared the Bishop’s anniversary cake, and they were given the option to take meals home.
Support for the Community Café comes from local businesses, including Wegmans in Bethlehem and Allentown, Giant in Allentown, and US Foods.
“For my anniversary, I spend it as a day of service,” said Bishop Schlert. “I try to do that every year, whether it’s in the hospital, nursing home, food truck, or another setting. I like to do an act of service.
“It’s beautiful to see the goodness of the people of our Diocese, both those who support our work and those who do the work, and the effects that it has on the people who come to us.
“It truly shows the compassionate face of Christ, and as members of the Diocese, we should all be very grateful and, in a humble way, proud of the work that we were able to do as a collective family of faith.”
Before the meal, Bishop Schlert joined Marie Brown, Community Café Kitchen Coordinator, for a walk around the facility to learn more about the community’s needs and the ongoing progress of the café’s outreach.
“It has been a really rewarding experience for me,” said Brown, “because the people are like my family.”
“Even if people are only here for 45 minutes to an hour,” said the Bishop, “it may be just the tender care they need. It is good for the soul.”
To volunteer with Catholic Charities, email Taiba Salloum, Community Engagement Specialist, at tsalloum@allentowndiocese.org.
Article and photos by Annaleigh Gidosh.
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