Fuel the Fire!
Last year, my mother was in town from Phoenix for Leland's first Eucharist. It coincided with SMASH—our parish's annual gala and auction, which supports financial aid for our students and lay leaders like me who want to further their formation and education. More on that in a moment.
"What are you going to wear?" she asked, assuming I would select from the myriad suits and ties in my closet. "Black tie," I said, which widened her eyes. "I bought that tux and might as well use it," I continued, "but you're fine—all are welcome!" We went shopping that afternoon. As it turned out, this year's award recipients are good friends with Ed Archer, the band teacher at Bishop Alemany High School —and legacy Director of Music at St. Monica—under whose baton my mother played baritone sax. To go even deeper and further, my mother found a clipping of her with Msgr. Torgerson from "The Tidings" in the late 70s—who would have known?!? She had a blast reconnecting with her mentor, making new friends with the Layman family, and, most importantly, getting a taste of why my vocation is at a parish—why I love St. Monica so much.
So yeah, SMASH is a fun night. At the same time, it allows those who choose to serve in parish ministry to grow their discipleship through the lay ministry endowment. Three of our staff have received their certificate in Parish Business Administration: Christine Gerety, soon to be Director of Engagement & Spiritual Care; Felipe Sanchez, our Director of Administration; and me. Our Director of Music, Jeffrey Bonilla, and Dan Houze, livestream coordinator extraordinaire, received their certificates in Advanced Pastoral Liturgy. Our lay endowment also funds our music ministers, faith formation catechists, and other engaged volunteers an opportunity to attend RECongress.
It has funded conferences for our parish staff, colloquium, and workshops, and will even provide scholarships for teens this year who would like to be a part of City of Saints.
My mother didn't know she was doing all that when raising the paddle. She was just there to score a fun night out with her son. Whether you can be a part of this fantastic evening or support us through your bids and donation, thank you for making a life working in a parish possible. Not only for me but for all those who have and will benefit from all the good that comes from SMASH. Join me and allow us all to thank you!
