Extending God’s mercy and compassion to those in need.
Pastoral Care &
Community Outreach
Pastoral Care &
Community Outreach
Extending God’s mercy and compassion to those in need.
SMP in the Community and in the Parish
We believe, in the long tradition of the Catholic Church, that we are to be the hands and feet of Christ in the world. The Corporal Works of Mercy are found in the teachings of Jesus and give us a model for how we should treat all others. They “are charitable actions by which we help our neighbors in their bodily needs” (USCCA). They respond to the basic needs of humanity as we journey together through this life. “We shelter the homeless, educate those hungry for knowledge, and care for the sick,” Cardinal Hickey said, “not because they’re Catholic, but because we’re Catholic. They are Jesus in disguise.”

Feed the hungry.
There are many people in our community who struggle to get enough food for themselves and their families. We work to alleviate hunger in several ways. Many SMP parishioners work in teams at the Community Kitchen to prepare meals for hundreds. Others prepare meals during the cold weather season to feed our Men’s Shelter guests. We also collect food and monetary donations at all Masses on a dedicated weekend each month for the Thurston County Food Bank.
Get involved! >
Shelter the homeless.
Homelessness is a growing problem in many parts of the US, and our community is no exception. We’re not called to solve the crisis of homelessness, but we are called to offer help to our brothers and sisters. At SMP, we operate a Men’s Shelter in conjunction with Sacred Heart Parish in Lacey from November–March each year and house up to 20 men each night. Parishioners serve as hosts, prepare hot meals and sack lunches, and launder linens.
Get involved! >
Care for the homebound and the sick.
We do our best to care for our homebound brothers and sisters and ensure anyone in need of anointing is able to receive it. Eucharistic Visitors are available to bring Communion to homebound parishioners as well as those who have transitioned to assisted living or hospice care in the Olympia area. The sacrament of anointing of the sick is available by appointment anytime someone needs special support and strength when facing a health challenge. It is also offered after the morning Mass on the first Saturday of each month.
To schedule a Eucharistic visit or arrange for anointing of the sick, please call the parish office at (360) 754-4667. If calling after hours, you’ll be prompted to leave a message on our emergency line and someone will return your call as quickly as possible.
Get involved! >
Visit the prisoner.
Prison and jail volunteers regularly visit inmates at different detention facilities to share their faith and message of God’s love and forgiveness. Working in teams, volunteers share their faith with prisoners by leading or assisting with Bible study, prayer, faith-based support and Communion Service, offered regularly to incarcerated men and women. Saint Michael Parish also runs a sock and cookie drive before Christmas for inmates.
Get involved! >
Bury the dead.
The death of a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences of life. The prayerful support and assistance of your Church family can be indispensable. We’ll walk you through the planning of a Funeral Mass, a simpler style prayer service, a graveside committal, or another appropriate remembrance of your choice. To speak with someone about a funeral, just call us at (360) 754-4667.
You may also want to consider having your loved one interred in our Calvary Catholic Cemetery, located in Tumwater.

Give alms to the poor.
Giving alms is the love of God and neighbor in action. Whether it’s helping with donations of time, talent, or treasure, we strive to provide support and services for those in need. The below organizations are a tremendous resource in our community and would welcome your financial or material donations. They should also be at the top of your list if you need assistance! Please click each listing to get an idea of the type of help provided.
Get involved! >Get involved in ministry!
Just send us your info and one of our ministry leaders will contact you and help you decide your area of involvement.