By Annette Bentler, Serena Saskatchewan
The annual Serena Saskatchewan gala was una noche muy divertida (a fun night)!
EEBurritos was the venue this year, providing ambiance, Latin American cuisine, background Mexican music, a bar, and room for cracking open a piñata. Several of those attending wore a serape (Mexican poncho) or other Mexican-themed clothing. Those at each table learned some fun facts about Mexico before being directed to the buffet line. There were healthy bidding wars for the silent auction items, which also included succulent centerpieces.
(Photos by Lorraine Sturgeon)
Deb Larmour of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy Family and Life Office spoke passionately about the sexual crisis our world has fallen into, saying that we cannot stand idly by. She urged her listeners to be a voice of truth; to get involved. It’s so easy to get discouraged against such darkness yet we must remember that our hope is in the Lord, she said. Serena Saskatchewan needs your help – your time, talent, and treasure – to lead others into authentic sexuality, she said.
Guest speaker Fr. Geoffrey Young of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Saskatoon spoke eloquently about how Biblical couples and Our Lady of Guadalupe can shed light for marriages today. Listen to his talk at fatheryoung.com/marriagecultureworshipfebruary2020/ (click on the arrow beneath the Our Lady of Guadalupe picture). He focused on Adam and Eve whose story reveals God’s original plan for human marriage and demonstrates how sin has distorted it. We are all called to the Heavenly marriage, Fr. Young said.
To compliment his talk, participants paired Biblical couples on a handout and were encouraged to study them further in order to enrich their own marriages.
“I’ve been to a lot of fundraisers but the Serena one is my favorite,” said one participant. Another regular guest added: “When you go to other fundraisers, you know you’re at a fundraiser. Serena’s gala is a nice evening out.”
The next gala is scheduled for February 6, 2021.
To assist in Serena Saskatchewan’s mission of strengthening marriages, e-mail sask@serena.ca, or phone/text 306-934-8223 or find information and/or make an online donation at saskserena.ca.
Upcoming in September:
Mark your calendars for Serena Saskatchewan’s eighth Run for the Family on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2020 starting at 10:00 a.m. at Meewasin Park North in Saskatoon. Choose from 1-km, 3-km, or 5-km events (run, walk, strollers welcome). Prizes will be given to the first several families who register. We are looking for race day volunteers and donations (items to place in the participants’ goodie bags, door prizes, and post race snacks). Register online – LINK – or for more information e-mail sask@serena.ca