BOSTON — St. Anthony Shrine here concluded its St. Francis Week celebration by honoring women who have contributed significantly to its ministries.
At a cocktail party Oct. 10 at the Shrine, David Convertino, OFM, honored Sr. Margretta Flanagan, MFIC, Sr. Margaret Henry, MFIC, Sr. Pat Barrett, MFF, and Sr. Linda Greenwood, OSF/MFIC. Also honored were businesswomen Jean Tempel and Jane Daly. The theme of the party was “The Year of the Woman.”
In addition, David honored Angela Menino, First Lady of Boston, for her untiring work for the poor and oppressed of Boston. The evening’s program also included a short address by Mayor Thomas Menino. Both the mayor and his wife have long been enthusiastic supporters and worshippers at the Shrine.
More than 200 people attended the party, enjoying “Convertinis,” a beverage mixed by David, delicious hors d’oeuvres and desserts prepared by friary chef, Rob Serafino, and music provided by Duane Fernandez, OFM, from Christ the King Province in Western Canada, who recently joined the friary.
An extremely successful Silent Auction topped off the evening. This year’s auction theme was “All Things Franciscan,” with most items handcrafted and donated by friars.
Sebastian Tobin, OFM, donated several leather purses. Raymond Mann, OFM, donated a handmade clock with Westminster chimes. John Jaskowiak, OFM, donated a Sister of St. Joseph and a Daughter of Charity nun doll, which he handcrafted. Daniel Horan, OFM, donated two autographed professional photographs of Patriots quarterback Tom Brady. Barry Langley, OFM, donated a quilted wall hanging. John Maganzini, OFM, and Paul Santoro, OFM, donated an “Evening in Tuscany” meal that they will prepare in the winning bidder’s home.
In addition, Stephanie Peacock, a friend of the Shrine, donated an original oil painting of Assisi, while Deb Dyer, another friend of the Shrine, donated a hand-bound, hand-lettered, illustrated edition of “St. Anthony and the Fishes.”
— Diane Monaghan is director of development for St. Anthony Shrine, Boston.