The January 14th general meeting was held as part of the parishwide baby shower.  LOSH members brought their donations and member donations were also used as centerpieces for the tables.  A truly festive atmosphere reigned over our meeting.

After Deacon Bernie said grace and led members in the pledge of allegiance, Fr. Bill blessed the shawls and reminded attendees of several upcoming parish and diocesan events.  Buddy Dixon took the microphone after Fr. Bill's remarks and gave a presentation on the planned excursion to Crystal Bridges and other points of interest sponsored by the Sacred Heart Men's Club.  It is my understanding that the available reservations are now filled and a waiting list has been started should there be any cancelations before the trip.

Our speaker, Marlene Zenker, was then introduced.  She gave a poignant, and yet often humorous, description of her journey with her husband to the Island of Madagascar.  Poverty and extreme hunger were everywhere.  Marlene came home with a feeling that the hunger she witnessed up close and personal should be publicized if there would ever be a solution for this widespread misery.  She authored a children's book entitled "The Empty Bowl" to awaken in both children and adults a concern for the paralyzing poverty and hunger that remains prevalent in parts of the earth.

Marlene cites the call of our Savior, as presented in Matthew 25:35-40, to remind us of our responsibility to feed the hungry, and to comfort the afflicted as we are, indeed, our brothers keepers.

After her presentation, Marlene signed books purchased by members.