I am not sure that I can think of a more grace-filled and fulfilling manner in which to spend my Sunday evening, then participating in the St. Benedict Joseph Labre Project. Since 2003, students, parents, benefactors, community members and clergy associated with St. Ignatius High School (Cleveland) have gathered every week to share nourishment and clothing, but most importantly fellowship with those men, women and children living outdoors. By attempting to live the Gospel message of service to others, these volunteers seek and find the true face of Christ by being the most life-giving disciples imaginable.
I was first introduced to Labre by my JVC roommate, Veronica, who volunteered in various capacities at the Arrupe Neighborhood Partnership. She would often return home late on Sunday evening with so much life, energy and countless stories of those whom she had met that I just had to take up her invitation to join her on a future Sunday. It took one van excursion along the Flatts route and I was hooked.
It is very difficult for me to explain what actually happens on Labre, other than the necessary food preparation, van packing and send-off gathering in St. Mary's Chapel. However, I will say this. Once you do Labre once, you will be ruined for life.
I will leave you with the following words from Jim Skerl (theology teacher at Ignatius, co-founder of the Labre Ministry and one of Cleveland's beloved):
"After you touch the wounds of those in the city tonight, there's no looking back. Cleveland will never look the same again."
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