Annual Interfaith Service Memorializes the Homeless

Candles were lit as the names of homeless individuals who died this past year were read inside St. Joseph Church in New Orleans at the Jan. 14 Interfaith Prayer Service for the Homeless. A separate candle was lit for those who had perished in 2019 from lack of shelter, but whose names were unknown to all but God. Vicki Judice, executive director of the Harry Tompson Center, a local provider of day shelter services for the homeless – such mental health care, housing placement, showers and legal services  – informed prayer service  attendees that the average age of death is 50 among those who live outdoors for seven or more years. Despite working in often grim conditions, Judice noted how many of the homeless guests assisted by her and her staff serve are role models of faith, generosity, courage and tenacity. Archbishop Gregory Aymond concluded the prayer service by asking for God’s help in putting the evening’s prayers into real action on behalf of those struggling with homelessness, hunger and other issues.