A Reverent Tribute to the Blessed Mother and a Heartfelt Fundraiser
On Saturday, May 3, 2025, the Archdiocese of Washington Ladies of Charity (ADW LOC) gathered for their Annual May Day Celebration at the St. Ann’s Center for Children, Youth and Families in Hyattsville, Maryland. This special event, held in the beautiful chapel at St. Ann’s, is not only a cherished tradition but also serves as an important fundraiser.
Honoring the Blessed Mother
Mass started promptly at 10:00 am and the Celebrant and Homilist was the Very Reverend Cornelius Ejiogu, SSJ and Pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Washington, DC. Father Cornelius preached a stirring and humorous homily that touched the charitable spirit in all of us, as he related our nurturing and charitable spirit to that of the Blessed Mother. The chapel was adorned with flowers and candles that were kindly set up for us by the lovely Sisters at St. Ann’s who were very gracious hosts as usual. This provided a most serene and sacred atmosphere for the occasion.
Hymns and prayers filled the air throughout the service as the congregation joined in the celebration. The crowning of the Blessed Mother was performed by ADW LOC Board Secretary, Ausurelee Pace. Other members who served in the Mass included Board President, Jamila Stone, also Viola Robinson, Mid-Atlantic Regional Director, Octavia Jackson, Board Vice President, Regina Barrett, PG County President, and Kim Taylor of St. Martin of Tours Church in Washington, DC. The Mass always marks a collective sense of reverence and unity, as our members reflect on the virtues of the Blessed Mother and her role in our lives.
Fundraising for ADW LOC
In addition to its spiritual significance, the May Day Celebration serves as the annual fundraiser for the ADW LOC. The funds raised during this event are crucial for sup-porting the various charitable activities and initiatives undertaken by the organization throughout the year. There are opportunities for our members to donate at the Promoter, Benefactor, Sponsor and Patron levels. These donations are collected in time to be printed in the lovely commemorative program that was designed and produced by ADW LOC Treasurer, Toni K. Gaines, who also collected the funds and coordinated the ordering of the delicious, boxed lunches our members were able to enjoy after the Mass. We had 73 donors who made over $2,180 in donations and after expenses; we raised a total of $1,566.56.
A popular instant cash grab was the 50/50 raffle that added to the excitement, with Kim Taylor selling all of the tickets and the winner, Regina Barrett, donating the $97.00 pot when her ticket number was called. A conciliatory 2nd prize that was given out was a beautiful bouquet of flowers gifted to us by the Sisters at St. Ann’s. The 50/50 raffle draw took place at the end of the celebration.
presenting donation in memory of the late Sharon Graham
Donations to St. Ann’s
There were monetary donations and gift cards given to St. Ann’s from LOC units around the Archdiocese of Washington and by individuals. In memory of the late ADW LOC Board Vice President, Sharon Graham, a $250.00 donation was given to St. Ann’s from the Ladies of Charity of Holy Comforter-St. Cyprian’s Catholic Church in Washington, DC.
Impact
The funds raised during the May Day Celebration will have a lasting impact on the ADW LOC’s ability to continue its charitable work. The contributions to St. Ann’s will help their organization continue to support their various programs and the important work they do, including the provision of food, clothing, and shelter to those in need who depend on their help.
With Gratitude and Appreciation
The Archdiocese of Washington Ladies of Charity’s Annual May Day Celebration is more than just an event; it is a symbol of faith, community, and compassion. By honoring the Blessed Mother and raising funds for charitable activities, the ADW LOC continues to uphold its mission of charity and service. This event was a poignant reminder of the power of unity and the importance of giving back. It is a true display of how our members remain dedicated to making a positive impact by showing our faith and spreading hope throughout our community.
The ADW LOC Board extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended and participated in the event, contributed to the fundraiser, and supported the mission. Most importantly, we are grateful to Sr. Nancy Downing, CND, The Daughters of Charity, and the staff at St. Ann’s for graciously hosting us and beautifully decorating the Chapel and Auditorium.
The success of the May Day Celebration is a reflection of our collective effort and commitment to the community by making a difference in the lives of others giving credence to the Ladies of Charity motto, “To Serve Rather Than Be Served in Humility, Simplicity and Charity.”
Submitted by:
Octavia Jackson
ADW LOC Board Vice President