As Catholics, we are called to recognize Christ in the poor and vulnerable and to work for a society where every person can flourish. In his message for the 2026 World Day of the Poor, Pope Leo XIV reminds us that "The Lord is the refuge of the poor" and challenges Christians not only to seek refuge in God, but also "to be a refuge for the poor."
To deepen our understanding of the realities faced by so many of our brothers and sisters, Catholic Charities- Social Concerns and St. Vincent dePaul invite you to participate in a Poverty Simulation on Saturday, November 7, beginning at 1:00 p.m at St. Barnabas, in the school gym. This interactive experience helps participants encounter the daily challenges of families living in poverty and reflect on our Gospel call to uphold the dignity of every human life. As Pope Leo XIV observes,"The poor of our day are the forgotten and the marginalized: robbed not only of bread, but also of a voice and a face."
Through this simulation, we are invited to see, hear, and respond to those often overlooked in our communities, putting our faith into action through greater compassion, justice, and solidarity. The experience will conclude with the celebration of Mass at 5:00 p.m., where we will gather as one Body in Christ to pray for and with those who are poor and vulnerable.
Date: Saturday, November 7
Time: 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (followed by Mass at 5:00 p.m.)
Location: St. Barnabas School Gym (sign-in in the atrium)
Register online: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/Gaecr2ZxYQ
For questions, contact Laura Sheehan at lsheehan@archindy.org
Sent by St. Barnabas on Wednesday, November 4 at 11:03AM