The Highway Cleanup Program: A Collaborative Effort by MDOT and St. Martha Knights of Columbus

The Highway Cleanup Program, initiated by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), is a vital initiative aimed at maintaining the beauty and cleanliness of Michigan's roadways. This program not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of our highways but also promotes environmental stewardship and community involvement. One of the notable participants in this program is the St. Martha Knights of Columbus, a dedicated group committed to service and community betterment.

The Importance of the Highway Cleanup Program

The Highway Cleanup Program serves several essential purposes:

• Environmental Protection: By removing litter and debris from highways, the program helps protect local wildlife and ecosystems. Clean roadways reduce pollution and contribute to healthier environments.

• Community Engagement: The program encourages local organizations, schools, and community groups to take an active role in their surroundings. This fosters a sense of pride and responsibility among participants.

• Safety Enhancement: Clean highways are safer for drivers and pedestrians. Reducing litter can improve visibility and decrease the likelihood of accidents caused by distractions.

On Sunday, December 11, 2022 , The All Faith Ministry For disAbilities celebrated a Special Needs Mass said by Fr John Byers at The Bethany House on the grounds ofthe St . Francis Retreat Center in Dewitt MI.Following the Mass, the Ministry hostedtheir Annual Holiday Party and Dinner.Five Brothers,Jim Collum, Don Klump, Larry Blatnik , Rich Ballor and Mike Horvathwere in attendance to assist Cathy Blatnik, the Ministry's Administrator to ensure thatall 30 plus guests and their families were greeted by Santa (Rich Ballor) and enjoyedthe festivities.Jim'sson , Adam also was on hand to serve the Mass with Fr. Byers.The Ministry is dedicated to serving all persons with birth or life incurred disAbilitiesand their families

greeter ministry1

Our patroness St. Martha is smiling to know that we are firing up a Greeter program again.  More than ever, we will be rewarded in the coming year and beyond for ensuring everyone who comes to Mass experiences the famous St. Martha hospitality from their very first impression.

The main elements of the Greeter program are as follows:

  1. We will have two individuals or two couples (so from 2 to 4 people) at each of the North and South entrances for each Mass.  Up to 32 total slots to fill each weekend.
  2. There will be specifically assigned individuals to each Mass and each door.
  3. The Greeters will have a name tag and/or badge.
  4. The Greeters will be in place beginning 15 minutes before Mass.
  5. The same Greeters will be in place from after communion until 15 minutes following Mass.
  6. There will be a dress code of sorts: Sportcoats or better for the men; the women probably don’t need one, but we’ll come up with something if needed.

 

Men's prayer group

On any given Saturday, while most of Mid-Michigan is just starting their day, a group of men meet at St Martha Parish. An ordinary group to the casual observer, these men are offering prayers for healing. For anyone. For any reason. Their experiences with the group attest to the power of prayer in our lives, especially group prayer directed towards a specific cause. They also speak to the sense of inner peace that they experience as a result of this practice, and how it deepens their sense of connection to God. If you want to experience what these men have come to realize as an integral part of their faith lives, please accept this invitation to join them on Saturday mornings at 7:30am in the Bride's Room at St Martha Church in Okemos.

For more information please call Mike Siminski (517) 505-0270

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