RALEIGH, N.C. — St. Francis of Assisi parish here celebrated the 26th anniversary of founder’s day in April.
Founded in 1982 with 125 families, the parish has since grown to almost 40 times its original size, it now has 4,800 worshipping families.
In parish tradition, the staff met on April 26 to celebrate history and recognize employee service and commitment. The staffs of the church, Early Childhood Learning Center and The Franciscan School gathered for a luncheon. William McConville, OFM, gave his rendition of the TV game show, “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” Questions were taken from the catechism, and William allowed staff members to use lifelines if they needed help in answering the questions.
After lunch, pastor Mark Reamer, OFM, gave service awards to employees with five, 10 and 15 years of service.
Mark also announced the inaugural recipient of the David McBriar, OFM, Collaborative Ministry Award. The award was commissioned for David’s upcoming 50th jubilee of his ordination, and his commitment to collaborative ministry. The antique bronze award features an image of David and the parish logo.
The first recipient of the award was Cheryl Stevens, a fifth grade teacher at The Franciscan School. Cheryl brings collaboration to life by drawing upon the talents of the entire St. Francis staff and community.
— Marc Kielty is coordinator of communications at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Raleigh.