By Joan Zombek
Photos courtesy Michelle Harvey, Parish Communications
Sultry summer afternoons are perfect for getting together with family and friends to socialize, meet new people, and enjoy a cool treat. If you braved the Arizona heat and accepted the Seton Society’s invitation to join your parish family for ice cream sundaes on July 27, you were in for a double treat! BINGO was also on the menu, with multiple opportunities to win gift cards for local businesses thanks to President Mary’s careful planning.
Realistic-looking ice cream sundae centerpieces hand-crafted by Liz sat atop brightly colored table coverings, and society members were gratified that every table was occupied by enthusiastic parishioners and their guests. Packs of lucky winning cards were available from Diana and Donna for a donation. Ice cream sundaes were served by Seton Society members Margaret, Nan, Noemi, Carlene, Carmen, and Julie, assisted by parish volunteers Michelle and Jane and Parish Council Chairperson Mike. Patient ice cream lovers did not have to wait long for their individually custom-prepared vanilla, chocolate and strawberry sundaes topped with chocolate syrup and whipped cream, and crowned by that juicy red cherry.
Once everyone’s ice cream wish was granted, the games began. Karen and Joan shared number calling responsibilities, while Paulette and Noemi verified winners and delivered prizes. The afternoon proved to be especially rewarding for the gentleman who won the first two rounds, not to mention the other individual winners. Several variations of BINGO followed, in addition to the well-known vertical, horizontal and diagonal formations. These included filling the entire card or forming the upper-case letters “X” and “L”. Father Williams also joined us, participating in animated conversation with attendees.
The afternoon seemed to melt away in enjoyment, and many BINGO enthusiasts expressed disappointment at the conclusion of the final game. But good news! The Ice Cream Social will return next year, but there are also several other upcoming Seton Society events that no one will want to miss.
The concept of being “One family in Christ working, praying and serving together,” which Deacon Sal assures us is a “foundational concept within Christianity, rooted in biblical teachings about the unity of believers,” aptly describes our parish and all of our associated organizations. Perhaps we can expand this definition to include “playing.”
