September Pancake Breakfast

On Sunday, September 28, 2025, our Council hosted a Pancake Breakfast following the 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Masses. We welcomed an estimated 250 to 300 parishioners and guests. The morning began cool and mostly cloudy, then brightened toward midday. Temperatures rose from about 6°C after 7 a.m. to the mid-teens by early afternoon, with a steady south breeze. We prepared and served outdoors, and parishioners gathered both in the Upper Hall and on the Sacred Heart Elementary School playground. After the 9 a.m. Mass most lingered inside where it was warmer, while after the 11 a.m. Mass the sunshine drew most people outside to eat in the fresh air.

Our Council Chaplain and Pastor, Fr. Arjay Abanto, was present, visited, and mingled with parishioners, and Fr. Mario Basque added his trademark good humor and stalwart presence that kept spirits high. We were also grateful to welcome Fr. Dennis Vavrek, who celebrated the 11:00 a.m. Mass as a visiting priest and was in attendance at the breakfast.

At the griddle, Br. Sijo Abraham and SK Sasha Chitrenky kept plates full and lines moving. Br. Shibu Antony prepared the batter steadily through the morning and kept them supplied so the cooking never slowed. He also stepped in to serve and help with cleanup as needed. In the spirit of Faith in Action, Br. Phonse Delaney proved tireless, assisting with setup and teardown, guiding donations and public relations, and inviting parishioners after both Masses to come share a meal. SK Wayne Gerylo served pancakes, while SK Roy Ifill, Br. James John, Br. John Leahy, and Br. Cryztof Lopianowski worked shoulder to shoulder on setup, table preparation, and a thorough cleanup.

Families were very much part of the day. Br. Jim Delay served pancakes and was joined by his sons, James and Josh, who helped with cleanup, and his daughter Rebecca, whose presence with her brothers added to the family spirit of the breakfast. Br. Sean Andrade attended with his family, whose presence highlighted the welcoming, parish-wide spirit of the event. SK Cyril Nwachukwu stopped by with his family, further reflecting the importance of families being part of our gatherings. We were also delighted to welcome Sasha’s father, whose presence added to that family spirit and who, from time to time, helped serve pancakes. Br. Hany Farag visited with parishioners, SK Leslie Kiss mingled and shared Miraculous Medals, Br. Tom Shannon was present among the crowd, and Br. Michael Walsh came during setup to encourage the team with his trademark cheer. Moments were captured by Council Chronicler SK Roland Reeves, whose photographs reflect the joy of sharing food and fellowship.

We also note with gratitude the intention of Br. Eric Evano, who had planned to attend but was called away for work. Special thanks are extended to Principal Gwen Ramos of Sacred Heart Elementary for graciously allowing us to use the school playground.

A draw was also held for a car polisher, adding a touch of fun to the day. The draw was made by the Grand Knight, together with the Council Treasurer and the Financial Secretary, and the lucky winner was Anne Lear.

In all, 20 Brother Knights took part in or supported the breakfast. We are also grateful for the generous donations made by parishioners, which helped to offset the costs of the breakfast and support the work of our Council. This breakfast was the first event of the new Columbian year and stands as a joyful witness to our Council’s ongoing service. Thank you to every Brother Knight who served, visited, or supported this effort. The breakfast was a visible witness to our principles of Charity, Unity, and Fraternity, and a blessing for our parish family.

Vivat Jesus.