God made us for community. We are created in the image of a relational God who knows that our lives our best lived in close relationship with others. The parish community provides us the opportunity to live our lives in relationship with people who share our faith and values. Having a strong faith community gives us the ability to grow in our faith with others and then go out and be a person of influence and a tool of evangelization in our other work, school, or local communities.
Our parish is full of ministry opportunities to serve others and grow in our own faith. But it is important to also take part in the social events that build community and relationships with other parishioners. The Social Events Committee recognizes the importance of these events and works hard to put together many different kinds of events for parishioners to come and celebrate or have fun together.
“We really focus on providing hospitality to parishioners. We want to bring us together as a community so we can be together as a parish family,” says Jeaninne Hozian. Jeaninne and her sister, Marietta Hrach, are the co-chairs of this committee.
The committee organizes certain events annually such as the Chili Cook-off, Clam Bake, Breakfast with Santa, the Parish Picnic, and the Anniversary Breakfast to celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. They also assist with other events put on by different ministries and they are always looking for new ideas for activities that will bring the church community together such as family game nights.
The committee is comprised of a group of about twenty-five volunteers who organize and put on these events.
“Our dedicated committee works hard to utilize their time and talents to put on these events for everyone. Because we are a stewardship parish, we impress upon our members the commitment of time, talent, and treasure. Within our group, we want people to recognize their God-given talents and do what we feel called to do. If you are someone who likes to serve others behind the scenes and work in the kitchen and clean up after our events, we encourage you to do that. If you are more naturally inclined to help with the organizing or decorating, we have a space for you. This committee gives people an opportunity to share their talents in a wide variety of ways. We really welcome you to find a place here that allows you to serve God with the talents that He gave you,” Jeaninne says.
The Anniversary Breakfast is coming up on Sunday, December 10th after all of the Sunday Masses. Parishioners are encouraged to come and celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception with a delicious meal and fellowship.