Matthew 25
“I was hungry and you gave me food… I was a stranger and you welcomed me,
I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me,
I was in prison and you visited me…
just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family,
you did it to me.”
– Matthew 25:35-36, 40
In Matthew 25, Jesus teaches that serving those who are overlooked is not only an act of justice but also a way of encountering him. Throughout Lent, we will gather to serve together and also offer ways to participate individually, focusing on five areas drawn from Jesus’ words: feeding the hungry, welcoming the stranger, clothing those in need, caring for the sick, and visiting the imprisoned.
Local needs across Fairfield County and beyond continue to grow, from food insecurity and reduced benefits for families, to low blood supplies, to the challenges faced by immigrants, those experiencing homelessness, and people impacted by incarceration.
Through simple yet meaningful acts of service, we seek to respond to our Lord’s call and to deepen our life together in him.
Feed the Hungry
Gospel Garden Clean Up and Planting Sessions
Saturday, May 16, 10-11AM
St. Mark’s Gospel Garden
Spring has arrived, and we need your help to kick off this year’s Gospel Garden season! We’re rolling up our sleeves to clean up the beds, get them ready for planting, and put the first vegetables in the ground.
The Gospel Garden grows organic produce that is 100% donated to the New Canaan Food Pantry and Person-to-Person in Darien — two organizations facing growing demand. In one of the wealthiest counties in America, food insecurity is a real and rising problem: many families struggle to afford nutritious food as grocery and housing costs climb, and federal food assistance is being cut for tens of thousands of Connecticut families who depend on it.
No experience needed — just bring yourself (and your family or friends). This is hands-on work that makes a real difference.
Caring for the Sick
Red Cross Blood Drive
Together: Give Blood at a Red Cross Blood Drive
Tuesday, April 28, 1:00–6:30pm
Morrill Hall
Hospitals in Connecticut depend on donated blood for surgeries, cancer treatment, and emergency care, and supplies are low. Each donation can help save multiple lives. Appointments are needed. Schedule online or call 1-800-RED CROSS.
On your own: Visit the Red Cross website to find additional donation opportunities if you cannot attend on April 28.
Clothe Those in Need
Laundry Love
Together: Laundry Love
Giant Laundry East Norwalk
Wednesday, May 6 | Wednesday, June 3
Shifts: 1–3pm, 3–5pm, or 5–7pm (choose one or more)
Laundry Love offers practical support and dignity by helping neighbors who are struggling financially with their laundry.
Email Fr. John to sign up.
Visit the Prisoner
Frederick Douglass Project for Justice
Sing Sing Correctional Facility, Ossining, NY
This guided visit offers the opportunity for thoughtful conversation, listening, and deeper understanding through a structured program facilitated by the Frederick Douglass Project for Justice. The experience concludes with a shared meal and debrief alongside members of the organization. Registration required.
What’s Happening This Season?
Have you read our Eastertide booklet yet?
Find a copy in the narthex or around the campus to learn about all the upcoming opportunities at St. Mark’s.
Click here for a digital copy.