|
From the Summer 2008 Edition of Clippings Magazine
by Maraya Albertson
The scent of Spring was in the air along with French
toast, quiche, and baked goods on April 13th when 23
families totaling 87 new parishioners and expecting parents
enjoyed a delicious home cooked breakfast prepared by
the OLQM Welcome Committee. Tables topped with fresh
cut forsythia foreshadowed the budding conversations and
friendships developed over a cup of coffee. Introductions at
each table revealed new families who had just moved into
the area, past members returning, and expecting parents
having just been blessed at the 9:30 a.m. Mass. It was a
delightful way to have new parishioners meet each other
and other members. Everyone also had the opportunity to
learn about the many ministries, services and committees
offered at OLQM.
The Petito Family (left to right): Ben Jennifer, Sofie, Joe,
and Andres
Msgr. Ryan extended warm greetings to all after the
breakfast was served by Brian Doherty, Lily Ohlenschlaeger,
TJ Staib, and Lauren Stark from Nina Doherty’s 8th grade
religion class,. The guest speakers were MaryEllen Mack
from the Adult Faith Formation Ministry, Marge Dritto from
Religious Education and Cathy Evans from Family Liturgy.
Much was learned by all from the entertaining speeches
given by the speakers. Many children ran to the podium
after Cathy Evans speech to receive small gifts to remind
them of God’s love.
The Bollmer Family (left to right) August, Lucas, Auggie,
Auggie, Beth, The Stalzer Family - Frank and Maria
Positive sentiments were evident as families lingered past
the close of the breakfast. Jennifer Petito who attended
with her family had this to say about the event "I thought
the Church Welcome Breakfast was great - the food was
delicious and we got to meet and talk to a lot of other new
members while the kids were kept busy with the crafts." It
was the same friendly open arms feeling that I personally
experienced attending last years Welcome Breakfast that
inspired me to join the Welcome Committee. I have since
gained new friendships, deeper compassion, and a greater
insight into OLQM. Who would have thought the the way
to my heart turned out to be through my stomach?
Left to right: Chris Lupo, John Phelan, Eileen Phelan,
Elaine Suthers, Joan Dignam and Art Dignam
A good time was had by all thanks to the efforts of the
Welcome Committee: Sister Eileen Corcoran, Maraya
Albertson, Nanci DeSantis, Susan Greene, Rodee Hansen,
Maryann Mank, Kristin Panettieri, Fran Pirro, Maryann
Schecher, Elaine Stanco and Joan Wolf.
|