The Social Concerns Committee seeks, first of all, to raise the consciousness of the parish community in terms of social responsibility, emphasizing that the primary obligation of Christians, while growing in relationship with God, is to be bearers of the Gospel message of peace and non-violence in our world. Further, it strives to investigate the social needs of the community, formulating and implementing action to combat identified injustices. Christmas Giving Committee members solicit eight Jefferson County Agencies for gift suggestions for people who may be forgotten during the Christmas season. CCD children make the decorative ornaments to attach to the requested items, the youth assist with last minute shopping, wrapping, and delivery.
Parishioners purchase and wrap the majority of the gifts.
This project requires numerous committee members, coordinating the agencies, the youth, and the entire Parish Community. This annual project begins with planning in September and ends in January with the summation report presented to the Parish. In 1997, the Parish provided Christmas for 131 adults and 10 children. The Shepherdstown Ministerial Association supports the Jefferson County Community Ministries, a ministry that provides help for needy people in Jefferson County. The Social Concerns Committee provides a basket at the Church entrance for collection of food, paper goods, personal hygiene products, and cleaning supplies donated by parishioners.