When my dad died (I was 10), my church congregation took care of all our utilities for the three months bereavement leave my mom was out of work. It was such a tremendous blessing because it helped my mom out a LOT. Not only did she have to deal with my dad's passing, but she had to take care of me and then learn how to take care of the finances -- my dad was in charge of everything, and suddenly my mom didn't know what to do.

What surprised me the most was how they were able to keep it a secret from us, considering the size of our congregation (it's the largest Catholic church in the state). The generosity of these people is something I'll never forget, and I hope that one day I too can help others.