On the evening of November 8th, over 150 volunteers from across our three parish churches gathered for a memorable Parish Appreciation Night. The event was a wonderful testament to our community’s spirit, bringing together parishioners of all ages to celebrate dedication, fellowship, and shared mission.
The night was filled with warm energy, laughter, and delicious food. Volunteers were treated to a buffet-style spread with a variety of dishes, a lively BBQ station, and an array of drinks. With parishioners sharing stories and reconnecting around tables, the atmosphere was truly one of joy and togetherness.
Adding to the evening’s excitement, Father Roger led a lively music performance, with parishioners joining him in song after weeks of rehearsal. It was a joy to see everyone, from young children to elderly members, singing together and celebrating our faith through music. Father Vincent, our behind-the-scenes hero, meticulously prepared all the music equipment and even brought some special Vietnamese dishes, adding a unique and flavorful touch to the night.
Our Parish team, another group of heroes for the night, put in tremendous effort to organize the food, drinks, and logistics, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
A highlight of the evening was the introduction of our new interactive volunteer board. This board, showcasing photos of volunteer achievements and the growth of our parish community, drew the curiosity of the youth, who were eager to explore and even experimented with creating beautiful graffiti. It was inspiring to see young parishioners engaging with the history and accomplishments of our volunteer community.
The night also held a special surprise as we celebrated Father Jose’s birthday. Everyone joined in to sing him a heartfelt birthday song, and in his opening address, Father Jose expressed his deep gratitude, recognizing the time, effort, and gifts that each volunteer brings to our community. His words echoed the theme of the night: “Together, in Christ’s love, for others.”
The Parish Appreciation Night was a beautiful gathering that highlighted the unity of our parish family. Volunteers from different backgrounds, talents, and three distinct church communities came together to fulfill our mission and strengthen our shared faith. It was truly an evening to remember, filled with gratitude, joy, and a renewed sense of purpose.
