From the Catholic Ministries Appeal to the lector ministry, to the Saint Vincent DePaul Society, food distribution and the Social Action Committee, dedicated stewards Bob and Marie Keefe touch many ministries at Saint Rose of Lima Parish in Haddon Heights.
It all began decades ago for Marie, when she served as a Cub Scout leader for the parish, and 17 years ago for Bob, when he agreed to assist with the House of Charity, now South Jersey Catholic Ministries Appeal, and to serve on the parish council. Bob volunteered on the council from 2006 to 2009 and again from 2011 to 2013. Today, Bob is the parish’s annual appeal lead volunteer with Marie assisting on the administrative work.
“The accounting side of the volunteer work is something I really enjoy. It’s rewarding to see the funds used within the parish,” Bob said. “And Marie, well she keeps me on track.”
In addition to her volunteerism, Marie works part time as parish receptionist. Together, the couple make quite a difference.
Along with a cadre of loyal volunteers, they help those in need across the five towns served by the parish’s Social Action Committee through a weekly meal distribution program. They have it broken down into those who shop and take inventory, those who store the items on the shelves, packers who pack bags for specific families or individuals, and distributors. Over the years, they’ve gotten their grandchildren involved to assist with these activities.
“The grandchildren loved to volunteer,” Marie said. “It helped them understand the importance of stewardship. Youth involvement will build our future Church.”
Bob is particularly proud that the food distribution program continued throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Every Wednesday throughout the pandemic, our volunteers prepped the food distribution and stood out in the cold to provide to folks who would drive up. People mentioned how blessed they felt to be able to receive the groceries. Some told us that they couldn’t risk being out in the stores and that our efforts meant so much to them,” Bob said.
Father David Grover arrived as pastor just as the churches were reopening for services. He witnessed this ministry in action.
“There were a lot of changes for the parish, for all parishes, at that time. Bob and Marie were always there to help, and continue to do so today,” he said. “One thing that struck me is how they welcome those in need in such a friendly, compassioned manner. Some people feel a discomfort, but not them. They’re very humane and kind.”
Back then, the Keefes and other volunteers were helping the less-fortunate in parishes in Kentucky by providing gifts for Christmas. Now, they help locally with the Ronald McDonald house.
“Good stewards like the Keefes really help the parish run smoothly. It’s part of the nature of what a parish is meant to be to serve those in need,” Father Grover said.
The Keefes are quick to point out that the ministries in which they’re involved are able to make such a positive impact due to the dedication of others, their generosity of time and financial support.
“It’s very busy here,” Bob said. “Busy and fun working together with friends. One thing that we see is that friends invite friends to help. Young and older all working together.”
Through word and action, Bob and Marie Keefe embody the cheerful giver who glorifies God in 2 Corinthians 9:7, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
The mission of the Office of Stewardship is to help disciples of Christ who live in the Diocese of Camden to live out Christian charity in a sacrificial way that “we might understand the grace that comes from giving back from our blessings so that in all things God may be glorified.” For more information, contact Stacy Napolitano, associate director of major gifts and stewardship for the diocesan Office of Development, at 856-583-6126.
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