As we approach the end of August and Memorial Day Weekend, we can feel that summer is winding down. The days are getting shorter, cooler. Families are winding down their vacations, kids are returning to the classroom. The Men’s Ministry had a successful August despite being shorthanded at times.
We helped Fr. Thi move his belongings into his new residence in Ministry House 1. It was a little more challenging than expected. Who knew that he’d bring a large flat panel TV, a professional sized treadmill – some disassembly/reassembly required, and a much too heavy baby grand piano! Ten volunteers including a couple from his former parish managed to get everything in without incident.
Axel Brisken kicked off the preparation for the SJMM Annual retreat at the St. Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Baptista in November. The retreat center has been reserved for us November 21-23 with a rate of $150 per night for a single room, $130 per night for a shared room and an option for single day attendance (no room). The retreat begins Friday night on the 21st and ends after lunch on Sunday the 23rd. More details and signups will be in the coming months.
The SJMM wound down its summer BBQ season hosting a Welcome BBQ for Fr. Thi in the Holy Family Picnic Area after the 5:30 PM Mass on August 23rd. The invitation was extended to all the men of the parish. The weather was good and a good time was had by all though the turnout of men of the parish was less than hoped for.
In a move to improve the SJMM’s visibility to the parish at large, the men will attend the 10 AM Mass as a group on September 28. The men will serve as lectors, ushers, and Eucharistic ministers.
The SJMM will participate at the Parish Clean up day on September 6th by cleaning out and reorganizing storage garage no. 1 between 9 AM and Noon.
Lastly, the SJMM’s general meeting on September 2nd will feature an e-bike “e-xtraganza” with a presentation explaining all about e-bikes with two or more of the main types available for test rides.
- SR