Diocese of Santa Rosa
This Autumn has been productive and hopeful at St Kateri Tekakwitha. The one sad event was the passing of Denise Ruiz; whose steady participation and care helped to carry the Mission through many years. Denise cared for the church by raising funds, by cleaning the facilities, and with her husband, Frank, helping to maintain the building. Born on April 2, 1940, Denise died on September 3, 2017. Her Memorial Mass was attended by a large crowd with about 20-30 people unable to enter the overflowing church.
Another big event this quarter was the Annual Dinner/Auction which yielded over $2300; a joyful event for all who attended. A very kind anonymous donor made it possible to buy good quality steaks and the community came together to provide the rest of an excellent meal.
St Kateri Mission Church is now well-served by Father Francis Gayam, Father Andrew Pacheco, and by the retired priests, Father Mike Cloney and Father Gerard Brady, as well as an occasional visit from Deacon John Gai and his wife, Gail, as well as Deacon Ken Bond and his wife, Rose. Lou Bull continues to assist us with schedules for the Lectors, Agendas for Parish Council Meetings, and Sunday Bulletins.
Great progress has also been made on the upkeep of the Rectory with new gutters, and a new air conditioning unit. We also had a leak in the water distribution pipe; and that too is fixed and dry. All is well at St Kateri Mission! Our parishioners are truly grateful for the priests and deacons who come and serve our remote community.
Tamara Jenkinson
November 29, 2017
