“It’s awesome,” seniors serving at St. Vincent de Paul Parish in St. Louis said of their first week of service. The two young men were anxious to meet and serve the poor and homeless that know help is available at St. Vincent’s, a parish known for its outreach.

In the year 2015, the Diocese of Belleville marked many special occasions: anniversaries of parishes in the diocese, the dedication of a church and altar, retirements and deaths, all in the context of faith.

People came from near and far throughout the diocese to meet Bishop Edward K. Braxton at his residence Dec. 20 at his annual Christmas reception.