Detroit, MI
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This report comes from team leader Mark with the Eastern Market SPSE team in Detroit, MI:
Four evangelists—Cathy, Eric, Mark, and Susan—went to the farmer’s market last Saturday. Since we had enough people, Eric and Mark stayed at our table while Cathy and Susan took their wagon and went around the market.
Mark reminded some “Sola Scriptura” Protestants that most of the New Testament was initially addressed to bishops and elders of the early Church. This included, but was not limited to, Timothy and Onesimus (both of whom were bishops in Ephesus), as well as Titus (Bishop of Crete), Theophilus, and others. It’s obvious from the beginning that a clear, visible hierarchy was important in the early Church. That hierarchy had legitimate authority for teaching faith and morals. Moreover, they also had jurisdiction over particular cities and geographical areas.
A homeless man overheard us offer a Rosary to someone else, and he approached us, asking to receive one for himself. We were happy to oblige. He identified himself as Randall, opened up, and talked about his daily discouragement, saying that he felt neglected and ignored by most people. Mark and Eric offered him consolation, saying that God is always with him and always loves him, even when he feels neglected and abused by others. Mark referenced Matthew 8:20 and Luke 9:58, saying “the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head,” that Jesus knows what it’s like to be poor, homeless, and despised by others. Both Mark and Eric also have a lot of experience working with the poor and homeless, so we were able to listen and offer support. Mark gave Randall a pamphlet for the Catholic Charities Works of Mercy Center and referred him to other resources. More than anything, Randall just needed someone to talk to and treat him with respect. Mark led a prayer out loud for the man, that God would provide for all of his needs, material and immaterial. He also prayed that others would repent of their hatred and treat our guest with respect and, finally, that he would have the strength to deal with his daily struggles.
Praised be Jesus Christ!