This Year's Famous Italian Dinner

Guys, it was that time of year again, and I'm NOT talking about the Holidays! I'm talking about our famous Italian Dinner night! On Sunday, November 24th, many people gathered in the Cafe for a special night.

The evening events began with Mass, where I brought up the Gifts with Morgan and Shay. Actually, I just accompanied them, because I was so nervous. I was sure that I was going to drop the Gifts, and would be the center of an embarrassing disaster.

After Mass, everyone made their way to the Cafe. Let me tell you, the place was absolutely packed! (In years past, we would have used the stage for announcements and entertainment, but this year we had to seat people there!) The Cafe was decorated with tables covered in checkered cloths and had lights hanging from the ceiling.

Eventually, everyone found their checkered table and some delicious Antipasto to devour. (My Dad loved it!)

Then, we had our usual, wonderful Auction. This year, we had a couple of great auctioneers, K-man and Michael. There were amazing items; one was 'Flowers by Morgan'. Morgan, our BA florist, creates art with flowers. The winner of this prize would get four different arrangements for any holiday (or holidays). Also, Morgan will deliver the creations. How amazing is that!?

Another Auction item was a 'Visit from Patrick and Father Chris'. The winner here would have those two guys coming to their house and baking Christmas cookies. Sounds like a good time! (The winner better be prepared for Father Chris to make a big mess in their kitchen. I'm assuming here because I've never baked with Father, but I think it might be worth it to have those delicious, warm cookies.) Of course, we can't forget that Patrick is the king of baking and a lover of Christmas. So, I'll bet that cookies in December are Patrick's favorite dream.

Some of the other great Auction gifts included 'Golf with Father Nick' and 'Bread by Ray Werner'. 

A notable moment of the night was when each Team Member was introduced by Bridgette. She used  a projector to show pictures and said a few words about each of us. Her words were sweet and kind, especially when she called me a Sour Patch Kid! (Hahaha- I suppose you could guess  - that's an inside joke.)

The Door Opener Award is given each year to one extraordinary person who, like Brother Andre, opens the door wide for everyone searching. This year, the Award went to Kathy Freyvogel. She has committed love, time, and treasure to many charitable organizations and served as President at Oakland Catholic High School. Kathy is also Father Chris' aunt, and I could tell how proud he was to honor her.

Our Famous Italian Dinner Night makes it clear that support for Brother Andre's and our Mission continues to grow. It is WONDERFUL!

Now, the Cafe is decorated for Christmas. There are lights strung in the register area, a Christmas tree in one of the corners, and a village of houses on the counter. You should definitely come and check it out!

As 2024 comes to an end, we are thankful for all the Blessings this year has brought us. We are looking forward to seeing what 2025 has in store! (Personally, I think it's going to be extraordinary!)

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you!