Week of November 17, 2019

Editors note:  Fr. LeRoy is enjoying  some well-deserved time off  for himself.  For this week’s message Carrie Fedor of the St. Paul’s Christian Women share with us about the successful Holiday Bazaar:

“It is our responsibility as humans to take care of each other.”  -Caitlin Crosby

I want to offer a heartfelt thank you to everyone that made the Holiday Bazaar hosted by St. Paul’s Christian Women a great and successful celebration this past Saturday.  This gathering is a fantastic example of building community within our Church.  It is made possible by the generosity of so many, and offers us a time of reunion. For many of us, the Bazaar has become a beloved tradition, a time to gather for conversations, food, song, not to be missed baked goods, and a little shopping that all supports our parish. The one word that best describes this day is joy.  I see it in the way people greet each other, the laughter and conversation, and the pride of the committee.  For the members of the bazaar committee, this day marks the culmination of months of planning and hours of donated time, treasure and talent that bring all the parts of this day together.  

The bazaar the is the Christian Women’s main fundraiser for the whole year.  In the last five years, the group has raised more than $100,000 through this event and the generous support of our parishioners.  Most of what is raised (almost 75%) comes right back to our church and school. In addition, Christian Women have been regular contributors to Catholic Charities, Anna Marie’s Alliance, Place of Hope Ministries, the St. Clare Monastery, and other local charities. But Christian Women aren’t just all about the bazaar. This group has members that participate in almost every aspect of our parish life. They are part of our councils and committees, music ministry, sacristans, ushers, greeters, lectors, Eucharistic ministers, funeral lunch facilitators, and more.  For me, being part of this group has provided a necessary piece of my spiritual growth. It has allowed me to get to know and work with some of the most generous and wonderful people in my life.  These people have  become my faith family, and they have helped create community not just for me, but for all within our churches.  It is that sense of community that helps to create a welcome space for everyone. Members of this group are just fantastic people, and a blessing to our parishes! We are always open to new members and I invite you to join us and participate.  

Blessings to all families as we enter the seasons of Thanksgiving and preparation.

                                                                                                                    Carrie Fedor

                                                                                                                    St. Paul’s Christian Women