Teamwork Brings Together Dr. G with Immaculate Church Ministry

Without question, one of the most successful outreach programs for our community is the “Dinner Hour Ministry,” sponsored by the Immaculate Conception Church. For 24 years, under the direction of Mr. Eloy Sanchez, the church has been providing hot meals for anyone in need. According to Sanchez, that means “anyone who walks into the door can enjoy a hot meal, beverage and dessert. “We don’t turn anyone away,” adds Chuck Jablonski, who meticulously keeps record of every meal served, and person who walks through the door. The program continues every Tuesday evening at 5 p.m., at the Immaculate Church Hall, located at 1106 N. La Cadena. Staff includes Director Sanchez, Al Hernandez, Assistant Coordinator, Chuck Jablonski, Secretary, and a crew of five cooks; Mary Simental, head cook, Santa Cervantes, Silvia Cortez, Rachel Prieto, and Delia Hernandez. Recently, Dr. G (Dr. Luis S. Gonzalez) has been brought in to team up with this ministry. His experience as a long-time outreach minister with various church organizations and the Salvation Army, has proved to be an effective compliment to the Immaculate Ministry. Every other week, Dr. G performs music on the guitar for the approximate 200 dinner guests. He plays mostly classical music, but loves to include some traditional hymns and ballads to balance the program. “I enjoy playing classical guitar music because its soothing and calms the spirit,” he says. In addition, Dr. G has begun to reach out to the dinner guests by making house visits, especially to those who have special needs. “Several individuals and families are in very challenging situations,” said Dr. G, “we try to help provide some basic needs – beds, food, utensils, furniture, etc.” For Dr. G, “the important idea is to let them know we love them and care about them.” Dr. G adds, “Sometimes people just need a hug and some encouragement.” Ely Sanchez and Dr. G have been making plans to enhance the ministry by creating a home grown toy drive for local children. In the past, outside organizations have graciously helped with some donations, but at times supplies are limited. The other challenge has been getting these hopeful children and needy families to locations out of town to pick up the items. “We propose to develop a home grown toy drive that is developed in Colton, by residents of Colton, and available to the children of Colton, right at the church… in Colton.” With these plans firmly taking root, and other programs continuing to provide valuable services for the residents of Colton, the Immaculate Church “Dinner Hour Ministry,” will continue making a difference. Congratulations to Eloy Sanchez and his staff for offering this tremendous outreach ministry. For more information about the ministry contact Sanchez at 909-520-1600.