The St. Francis CCW Christmas party was held on December 15 at 6:30 PM in the grade school auditorium. 148 ladies, along with Fr. Vernon and Fr. Ken enjoyed the delicious turkey and dressing meal. President Connie Hille opened the evening by reading a Christmas Prayer. The neighborhood of Jean Schumacher and JoEllen Zerrusen were thanked for helping prepare and serve the meal.
The secretary and treasurer reports were read and approved. Silent bake sale and mission boxes were passed. Sign up sheets for Second Hand Rose workers and quilt sitters were also passed. Connie thanked the December volunteers. Thank you cards were read and get well cards were sent. Welcomed were the newly elected officers: Vice President, Rita Habing; Treasurer, Lori Runde; and Second Vice President, Janet Esker. The beautiful quilt for 2009 was displayed by Connie Hille, Judy Wermert, and Mary Hess, outgoing officers.
On December 4, the Why Catholic Meeting was held. Janet Probst, Alice Walker, and their neighborhoods provided the cookies for the evening program. On December 10, the CCW officers prepared 25 gift bags and delivered them to nursing home residents and shut ins.
Connie read a thank you letter from an overseas mission girl who is sponsored by the CCW. A motion was made and passed to donate $150 to Kara Esker to help defray the cost of attending the March for Life in Washington, D.C.
CCW members will be collecting the annual $5.00 dues. If you are collecting for your neighborhood, please return the envelopes as soon as possible. Your help is greatly appreciated.
Gift certificates were given to all the Franciscan Friars, Brother Pauli, the Sisters of the parish, and all who assist with the religious education program. A mass will be celebrated for all the volunteers.
Cathy Goldstein and her neighborhood arranged the entertainment for the evening. The talented 5th and 6th grade choir sang a beautiful selection of Christmas Carols. They were accompanied by Theresa Draper.
The decorating committee consisting of Karen Runde and her neighborhood had the tables decorated with festive centerpieces. Many lucky ladies won the centerpiece door prizes. Finally, Santa made his annual appearance passing out the exchange gifts.
The next meeting will be on January 19 at 7:00 p.m. in St. Clare Hall.
