St. Kateri Mission in the Diocese of Santa Rosa
St. Kateri Tekakwitha Mission Church has had an eventful quarter. A very successful retreat titled “Here I am to Worship” was held on March 17th at Kateri Hall. Once again, Mary Lou Davis led the day with fun activities and faith sharing. This time, the theme was Grief and Healing. Participants shared stories of losses and of overcoming losses; so there were tears and laughter as we listened to each other and remembered loved ones who are no longer with us.
The midday meal was delicious with treats from all the different kitchens. Over 35 people attended, among whom were five teenagers.
In the afternoon, we were gifted with a guided visualization and cleansing activity directed by Valerie O’Rourke. We then gathered for communal prayer and the laying on of hands for healing. The teenagers obliged us by playing along with the children’s song, Father Abraham. They had all their elders laughing and singing along.
Easter Sunday was a wonderful celebration with Monsignor Gerard Brady presiding. We gathered in the hall after Mass for fellowship and a light lunch.
Fundraising continues in earnest with a Rummage Sale planned soon. Some of us will be attending the Tekakwitha Conference in Tacoma, Washington, to be held in July; and a commemorative prayer service and picnic is planned for the Feast of St. Kateri on Bald Hill, overlooking the Reservation.
The congregation continues to be grateful for our Pastor Father Francis Gayam and the good priests who visit us, Father Pacheco, Father Cloney, and Father Brady, as well as for Deacon Ken Bond and Rose Bond. Also, thank you to Lou Bull who continues to help with the preparation of the bulletins and the documentation for the Finance Committee meetings. – submitted by Tamara Jenkinson, May 2018.
