Inspired By

The Work Of Dorothy Day

To the Editor:

What a joy to see the fine article about Reed Intermediate School teacher Karen King regarding her presentation of the Dorothy Day House, in Danbury [“HOM Team Learns About The Dorothy Day House, The Bee, 10/5/12].

Thirty-plus years ago, Bethel resident John Simonelli and Danbury residents Dr Paul Hines and yours truly came together with the same vision of responding to Jesus’  “Final Judgment” scene (Matthew 25). Inspired by the journey of Dorothy Day, in her lifelong work with the poor and vulnerable of society and the more local movement of the Benedictine Grange in Redding, in its service at the Good Shepherd House of Norwalk, we called a meeting of like-minded believers. Forty people manifested their interest with only one stated concern about finances being voiced: “Where will the money to do this come from?” We suggested that such was not a valid question. “Unless the Lord build the house, they labor in vain who build” (Psalm 146) became our mantra. By the third meeting,  a site was found, the rent  money contributed  and “Dorothy Day” became the name of the hospitality house.

Opening day — a feast day of St Paul — we ushered in the first guest by the name of Paul. Little by little, others, many others, would follow, numbering 100-plus guests for a daily meal and 16 guests for the housing shelter. Over 350 different volunteers have served at either the soup kitchen or shelter during these 30 years. Many volunteers and guests have since moved on to their own banquet at the table of the Lord. We never looked for government money to fund this program because we always protected the privacy of those using the service. One grant to set up the shelter was given anyway, because, as we were told by the grantee, “You are the only one’s doing that type of work in the area.” All other financial support and material goods come from individual donations and a number of local faith communities.

Thanks to volunteers such as Ms King and so many others out of the Newtown area, this community of faith will remain in operation until all who need and desire these services, are given them. Thank you, Karen, and all who serve God’s children.

Reverend Leo McIlrath

13 Sugarloaf Road,  Sandy Hook                                 October 7, 2012