DURHAM REGION CHARTER NIGHT

They Came from Chicago, From Halifax and various points in between, arriving in Ajax, Ontario on November 12th, 2005.

The evening began with Mass at St. Bernadette’s Church celebrated by The Most Reverend Richard Greco and concelebrating were Fr. Amaral (Vocation Director, Archdiocese of Toronto, Fr. Donato (Vocation Director from Halifax), Fr. Guenter Petricek (Serra Club of Durham Chaplain) and Fr. Edwin Gonsalves (Director, Office of Catholics Youth, Archdiocese of Toronto). The Invocation was offered by Fr. Guenter Petricek.

Following Dinner, the evening’s Master of Ceremonies, Garry Beach, introduced the visiting dignitaries of Serra, both International and Canada Council, as well as the visiting Serra Club Presidents for Ontario Clubs (Kitchener/Waterloo, Hamilton, Toronto Central and Toronto West).

Welcoming Remarks from Serra International were offered by John Woodward, Executive Director of Serra International, who with his wife June traveled from Chicago for the celebration.

Monique Kelly presented roses to Ann Dunn of Hamilton Serra Club for all the help with the administrative work in starting up the club.

The Club Charter was presented by John Woodward to Jim Kelly Club President.

Lee Hishon, President of Serra Canada Council, installed the new Board of Directors and welcomed them on behalf of the Canadian Council. Lee then invested all the new charter members.

Governor of District 26, Jim Meyer, presented the Governor’s Award for outstanding dedication to the cause of Serra to Mario Biscardi, president of Toronto Central Club. Mario has been instrumental in the formation of three new Serra Clubs. Congratulations Mario.

The Serra Bell and Gavel were a gift from the Toronto Central Club. Financial gifts were presented by Peggy Rodrigues (Toronto Central Club).

The Serra Banner was presented by Tony Stanco (Toronto Downtown) to Monique Kelly.

John Gennaro introduced the keynote speaker, Fr. Liborio Amaral, Vocation Director for the Archdiocese of Toronto. Fr. Liborio expressed the gratitude of all priests and religious for Serra’s continued devotion and prayer for Vocations.

SERRA GETS A NEW SONG TO SING

Internationally acclaimed songwriter, composer and recording artist, Fred Cacciotti, presented Serra International with an original work “A Call to the Priesthood”. John Woodward accepted this song. This inspired music is for the exclusive use by Serra International and all Serra Clubs worldwide. Permission must be granted for all others. Every Canadian Serra Club has been given their own copy.