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Theres nothing like an attractive outreach to draw people together in solidarity. At least this was the recent experience of the wider community in Knocknaheeny/ Hollyhill, Co. Cork.
Some people, realising that Sr. Mary Dixon was to go out to Kenya and Ethiopia in early April, got together and dreamed a day of events to fundraise for the people in need there. What transpired was beyond belief!! A spark became a fire!!
The project was launched in the City Hall the evening before, on 2nd April, by the Deputy Lord Mayor and parishioner Tony Fitzgerald. It was a fun evening!
The next day all ages, from toddlers to great grandparents, got in on the act and were involved in some aspect of the Marathon Day of fundraising.
The 3rd of April began with a lively Mass for the Missions in the Youth Centre and involved the participation of the First Communion Classes. The days initiatives included:
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Preschoolers and their parents and staff in the nursery doing a mini-mini-marathon and getting medals of achievement
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Coffee morning in the Youth Centre and We the People offices
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Bowling competition
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Ceilí Dancing by the senior citizens and anyone who wanted to dance!!
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Percussion and dance from the people in COPE
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Karaoke competition
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Snooker/Pool competition
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Soccer tournaments
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A fashion show...compliments of a city bridal shop
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A walk from Knocknaheeny to Cobh 14+ miles!!
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Cookery Demonstration
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All proceeds of the Youth Centre Café went to the venture
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Samba Dancing by the Niche group
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Donations from private individuals and groups in the parish and schools
The day drew to a close with a prayer ritual tracing the journey of the light of faith from Christ to each of us present and on to the people of Kenya and Ethiopia by the simple offerings of our days work. Sr. Mary was then blessed by Fr. Pat Fogarty and symbolically sent on Mission. This was a wonderful opportunity for the local community here in St. Louises to promote the life and vocation of Daughters of Charity and to use moments to spread the Good News to those who wanted to know more. Sr. Mary Dixon spoke superbly of her experiences on the Missions and about the needs of the people. It touched many hearts.
The event happened close to our annual renewal of vows which was another occasion to talk about the nature of our lifestyle and commitment.
The challenge is to find attractive ways to explain our charism and calling and of course our living out of this vocation must demonstrate a passion for the Way of Jesus, for others in need.
The local community in St. Louises and Mount Nebo spent time in prayer for vocations on Wednesday 9th April 2008.
15000 Euro was raised for the Daughters of Charity missions in Ethiopia and Kenya.
Eileen Browne D.C.
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