Members of the Merciful Mufflers knitting and crocheting ministry created hats, mufflers and even bags as a work of mercy this year.

By Mary Billups
MERIDIAN – Inspired by the Jubilee Year of Mercy declared by Pope Francis, this spring the Catholic Community of Meridian launched a new faith-sharing opportunity called Merciful Mufflers. This ministry seeks to respond to the corporal work of mercy “Clothe the Naked” in a meaningful way through prayer, fellowship and service to others.
Many parishes embraced the Year of Mercy with projects such as this one, finding personal ways to incorporate the works of mercy into their ministries.
Several dedicated ladies meet each Monday at the St. Patrick Parish Center to share their time and talents by creating handmade scarves, hats, ear warmers and hand warmers for those in need.
Since May, the group has knitted or crocheted more than 150 items which the ladies will distribute to agencies in Meridian that provide relief to the poor, the homeless and victims of domestic violence.
For more information or to join this ministry, contact Mary Billups, 601-693-1321, marybillups@bellsouth.net.

(Mary Billups is director of Adult Faith Formation for the Catholic Community of Meridian.
Editor’s note: if your parish embraced a project or new ministry for the Jubilee Year of Mercy, send it to editor@mississippicatholic.com.)