Religion
- Last Updated on Monday, 01 April 2013 00:30
Leprechaun hats, gold coins, shamrocks and green carnations were the table decorations for the March 4th meeting of the Catholic Women’s College Club. It was held at 6 p.m. in the social hall of St. Damien of Molokai in Monongahela.
Vicki Sento, March committee member, introduced guest speaker Dorothy Weldon. Weldon is president of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians. She informed the members that the LAOH is the largest Irish Catholic organization in the United States and has been in existence for 117 years. Weldon continued her presentation on the history and services of this Irish organization.
Following, President Susan Gessner thanked the February committee for their efforts in preparing the meeting, even though it was cancelled due to inclement weather. Martha Ghilani, chairwoman for the February meeting, briefly spoke on the Southwestern Pennsylvania Human Services Area Agency on Aging. Pens and calendars were distributed to all members, compliments of SPHS. Gessner then introduced the March committee: Dorothy Ghilani, chairwoman; Rosemary Bucchianeri; Ann D’Emidio; Vicki Sento; Barbara Smith; and Cindy Williams, and thanked them for their presentation.
Gessner reflected on this month’s theme, preparation. Fr. James Young spoke on this theme, emphasizing that the season of Lent is the time to ask forgiveness as well as to forgive.
The business portion of the March meeting was called to order. Vice President Camilla Ferrara called the roll. Minutes were read by Secretary Jo Anna Stroh and approved. Correspondence was also read by Stroh. Martha Ghilani gave the financial report in the absence of Treasurer Sally Keeney. Gessner distributed copies of the club’s revised standing operating procedures. Members were asked to review these revisions. They will be discussed at the April meeting.
Standing Committee Reports were given. Ambassadors of Faith, Charitable Services and Handicapped Adults reported on their Christmas and Valentine visits. Easter visits are being scheduled and baskets will be distributed throughout the valley. The women were thanked for their donations for this special and rewarding project. The welfare committee sent several spiritual cards and lit blessed candles for ill members of the club as well as members who have family in need of prayers.
President Gessner recognized and congratulated Camilla Ferrara and her husband Pete for receiving the “Manifesting the Kingdom Award.” They were presented this award on January 27, 2013 at St. Paul's Cathedral in Pittsburgh. The recipients were chosen from nominations submitted by pastors, communities and diocesan staff.
Lisa Foglia announced that the next meeting will be held April 8 and 6 p.m. in Jozwiak Hall at the St. Vincent de Paul site in Monessen.