Service and Social

Service & Social is a group of ministries dedicated to the practical application of the Gospel in society and are dedicated to fostering a sense of community within our parish. The individual ministries provide opportunities for Nativity parishioners to offer their time, talents and treasures to interact with and help others.


Catholic Scripture Studies


Our Bible Study uses the highly acclaimed Catholic Scripture Study Program (see www.CSSProgram.net). Studies incorporate Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition, and Magisterial Teaching. The CSS program strengthens Catholics in their faith and understanding of the Scriptural roots of the Church. No prior study of the Bible necessary, just a desire to grow closer to Christ. 

Our group meets on the even Wednesdays of each month in the Msgr. Paa Center from 7 to 9 PM. For questions or further details, please contact Dave or Loretta Schabel at 440-3020. You're welcome to just show up at our next meeting.



The Giving Tree Committee


As part of parish outreach, this group works with the youth of the parish to provide Christmas presents for children and families living in poverty in the Buffalo area. Contact the Rectory at 716-632-8838.

St. Vincent DePaul


Nativity’s St. Vincent DePaul group works to provide for the needs of the poor both locally and overseas. The group also ministers to residents of nursing homes through visits and gifts. Do you know of someone who is need of emergency living assistance? Contact at 716-632-8838 ext. 420 for a referral. All calls are confidential.

Nativity Gala - Proceeds to benefit Nativity of Mary School


The Gala is Nativity School's largest fundraiser. We are always looking for volunteers  in several areas to support the school's major fundraiser. If you have any donations from local business or contacts with employer or vendor, if you wish to volunteer, or if you have questions, please contact Erik Hoertz, Gala Chair at 716-408-6167 or nativitygala@gmail.com.

Bereavement Ministry


Ministry which reaches out to individuals and families who have experienced the death of a loved one or other significant loss. The group provides emotional and spiritual support as requested. Contact Deacon Thomas Friedman at 716-632-8838, ext. 403.

Catholic Charities Committee


The Nativity Catholic Charities Committee promotes the participation of every parishioner in achieving the diocesan goals for funding charities and counseling services. Contact the Rectory at 716-632-8838.

Girl Scouts


Girl Scout troops are available through Nativity School. The groups strive to teach girls Christian faith and the Girl Scout Law through social interaction and community service projects. Contact the Nativity School office at 716-633-7441 for referral to the various troop leaders.

Habitat for Humanity


Nativity is a Partner Church with Habitat for Humanity. As such, Nativity’s group works to mobilize the parish resources by offering prayer, financial and manpower support to Habitat for Humanity Buffalo and Habitat for Humanity International. Contact Kathy Visciano at 716-631-3690.

Home School Association


Nativity’s Home School Association provides the means for mutual cooperation of its members to best ensure the educational and spiritual growth and development of Nativity students. The group also secures and allocates resources to support the goals of Catholic education. Contact Heather Schieder, the current HSA president, at spear0891@hotmail.com

Men’s Group
Knights of Columbus 


The Knights of Columbus belong the the John Cardinal O’Hara council # 13661.
The council is comprised of three parishes, Nativity BVM, Our Lady of Peace and St. Theresa of Avila.
 
For more information, call Robert G. Habermehl at 716-633-8397 .

Outreach Programs


The outreach staff (pastoral associates) and trained volunteers respond to the needs and welfare of all parishioners, as well as diocesan and community groups. Contact the Rectory at 716-632-8838. Current outreach activites include: Bissonette House, Hearts and Hands, Family Promise, St. Lawrence Food Pantry, and Habit for Humanity. Look for more information about these activities under News.

Picnic Committee


A group of volunteers plan, organizes and coordinates an annual parish picnic for all parishioners.

Rosary/Prayer Shawl Service


Called -"Praying Needles & Beads", this ministry is an informal group of women and men that meet once a month to knit (or crochet) prayer shawls and/or make rosaries. Shawls are distributed to individuals who are in need of prayerful support. The rosaries are for local and mission use. Contact Annette Youngs at 716-633-8639.

Gift Card Program


You can support Nativity of Mary School by purchasing gift cards. They are available for sale after Sunday masses each weekend.  A percentage of sales comes back to our school and Parish. Use gift cards for your everyday purchases, including groceries, gas, movies, travel, restaurants and retail stores. They also make great gifts! 

See the order form at the Church entrance to see the wide selection of gift cards! For more information, email sales@nativitygiftcards.com

Social Justice


The Social Justice Ministry strives to learn the Catholic position on matters of social justice and advocate for the victims of unjust treatment. Contact the Rectory at 716-632-8838, ext. 403 for more information.

The Respect Life Committee


As part of the Social Justice Ministry, it is an organization focused on promoting and protecting the value and dignity of human life. Contact Gene and Arlene Mendryza at 716-634-8997 or the Diocese of Buffalo Office of Pro-Life Activites

795 Main St., Buffalo, NY 14203

Phone: (716) 847-2205 | Fax: (716) 847-2206

Regular Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m

Office of Pro-Life Activities, Buffalo Diocese - Telephone Hotline Numbers


Unplanned Pregnancy, Abortion Alternatives & Healing 716-847-2211.