“…My strength withered as in dry summer heat.” Psalm 32:4
The St. Joseph’s Auxiliary of the Sacred Heart Home planned the most wonderful Family Picnic on July 23 for our Residents and staff. On the agenda was a cookout and special activities as the Knights of Columbus grilled hot dogs and sausages, games both indoors and outdoors for children of all ages, and time spent with the Sisters and the families of both staff and Residents. Everything was prepared and planned in advance, but you cannot plan for the weather.
As the big day crept closer, the seven day forecast warned it would be a hot one. Then, the three day forecast confirmed the same news. Finally, the day came and it was H-O-T hot! Temperatures during the picnic rose to 94 degrees: too hot for our Residents and guests to eat outside. The leadership for the Picnic was determined to make this day a success, so they adjusted their plans. Our maintenance workers moved chairs into our cloister and set up the Holy Family Auditorium. When the Knights of Columbus ran out of propane used for the grill, teamwork came to the rescue. A staff member and a Knight made a quick trip to the local hardware store get a refill.
It would have been easy to let the Family Picnic wither in this summer heat, but it didn’t! Even with bad weather and propane shortages, God provides and shows us a way. Games were played both inside and outside, and those water games felt great in the extreme heat! Embracing the spirit of why we were all gathered together: to make the Residents happy, the Auxiliary and staff figured out ways to accommodate over 300 Members of the Sacred Heart Family present at the picnic.
Many thanks to the St. Joseph’s Auxiliary, Knights of Columbus, Residents, volunteers, staff, and family members who made this Family Picnic an occasion to remember. Praise be to God who renews our spirit even during the hottest days of the year.
