Trending
WHEELING -- Archbishop William E. Lori, serving as apostolic administrator of the Catholic Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, said Saturday he has "fallen in love with West Virginia."
Lori attended the Catholic Charities West Virginia Impressions of Hope Gala at Wheeling Park's White Palace ballroom which was filled to capacity. The fundraising event also served as a stage to honor volunteer Lisa Werner, The Congregation of St. Joseph and Wheeling Central Catholic High School. Each received a Charity in Action Award for their contributions to Catholic Charities programs throughout the Northern Panhandle.
Lori, who also serves as archbishop to the Archdiocese of Baltimore, is in West Virginia about once a month. On Saturday, he made numerous stops before the evening gala, including celebrating Mass at St. Vincent de Paul Church in Elm Grove.
In his remarks to the crowd, Lori praised the work of Catholic Charities, the honorees and all those in attendance who showed their support for the programs offered by the diocesan agency.
"I find West Virginia to be a very warm place and I have a soft spot in my heart for Catholic Charities," Lori said. "(Our) God of mercy compels us to go out and meet the needs of others, and serve them as a community of faith. There is so much goodness, openness and cooperation here."
Lori said he has been well-received by the Catholic faithful in the state, but noted a heavy workload when he visits. "When I come to West Virginia, you really work me hard."
Lori was named as apostolic administrator in September after the resignation of former bishop Michael J. Bransfield. Lori was ordered to initiate an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct regarding Bransfield and adults. An independent investigation has taken place and the results have yet to be made public. There has not yet been any information made public on who will be tapped as the new bishop for the diocese.
Saturday's gala, held just days before the solemn observance of Lent, was a night for celebration. Beth Zarate, chief executive officer of Catholic Charities West Virginia, said the goal of the agency is to "reduce the stress of the families we serve and provide health and hope."
In a video presentation produced by students at Wheeling Central, it was learned that Catholic Charities assisted more than 5,000 people last year, serving 72,000 meals as well as hundreds of meal deliveries to those in need. About 1,200 volunteers at Catholic Charities logged 40,000 hours of service last year. The agencies also provides disaster services, home care, child care food programs and more.
Shaun Jackson, a recipient of the agency's services, gave testimony about the help he received with utility bills, food and resume writing, which landed him on his feet today. He said Catholic Charities offers "a positive symbol of healing."
Among the honorees, Werner was chosen for being "a giver, friend and faithful champion of Catholic Charities," said presenter Bernie Twigg. Werner said her wish is for more young people to start volunteering earlier in their lives as it is very rewarding.
Paula Taylor presented Sister Helen Skormisley from the Congregation of St. Joseph with her award, noting they "open their hearts to anyone who needs them." Skormisley said the sisters are very committed to serving the needs of survivors of human trafficking in West Virginia, an escalating problem in the state.
Janet Boyle presented the award to CCHS Principal Rebecca Sancomb. Boyle said Central students and faculty are "builders of hope." Sancomb said it is the school's goal to have students "think and act like Christ" as they leave the school. Central students conducted the largest canned food drive in the state last year.