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BLUE HILL, HOLY TRINITY – Holy Trinity Parish in
Blue Hill held a fundraising pancake and sausage
luncheon at the Blue Hill Community Center Jan.
24 to benefit earthquake victims in Haiti. In
the event, the parish of 50 families hosted
nearly 200 guests and raised more than $1,600
for the Catholic Social Services fund for Haiti
relief. (Courtesy photo) |
Blue Hill Parish Holds Benefit For Haiti Earthquake Victims
BLUE HILL (SNR) – Wayne and Cherie Bonifas of Holy Trinity
Parish in Blue Hill organized a fundraising pancake and sausage luncheon at the
Blue Hill Community Center Jan. 24. Proceeds from the event will go to Catholic
Social Services to aid in relief for the Haiti earthquake victims.
Father James Schrader, pastor of the parish of 50 families, said the parish held
a special collection at Mass Jan. 17 to benefit the CSS collection for Haiti
relief. After Mass, he said, Mr. Bonifas approached him with the benefit
luncheon idea.
“I said I thought it was a great idea,” he said.
The event involved much of the parish quickly. Men of the parish and women of
the Altar Society worked together, with help from the CCD classes and their
instructors. Some of the students helped by setting up tables and chairs, and
others helped in the serving line and with clean-up. Younger students made
posters depicting the plight of the people of Haiti and these were displayed on
tables at the entrance of the community center.
The parish hosted nearly 200 guests and raised more than $1,600 in the event.
Father Schrader said the community response was “really inspiring.” The parish
was very happy with the turn-out, particularly considering that there wasn’t
much time to advertise the event.
Father Christopher Kubat, CSS executive director, said the response of people
across the Diocese of Lincoln to the victims of the earthquake in Haiti has been
similarly impressive.
“In the past, he said, “when faced with suffering members of the body of Christ
in other parts of the state, country and world they have always responded
generously. From the aftermath of local disasters, like the debilitating ice
storms across Nebraska, to Katrina and now the earthquake in Haiti, evidence of
their love for Christ in others has manifested itself by their charity.
“So far,” he continued, “we have collected almost $300,000 from the people of
southern Nebraska. Because of the tremendous need, I am confident that this
amount will continue to grow.”
He added that 100% of the funds sent to CSS for Haiti will be forwarded to the
relief effort. Those wanting to contribute can send a check made out to Catholic
Social Services with “Haiti relief effort” in the memo portion of the check.
Donations may be sent to Catholic Social Services, 2241 “O” St., Lincoln, NE
68510.