Last week, the Board of Directors invited all of the team members – staff and residents – to an appreciation lunch. It was their way of tangibly expressing their gratitude for the efforts the team makes week in and week out to keep St. Anthony’s going. 

The team was not allowed to do anything – the Board members did everything from buying the food, preparing it, and serving it to cleaning up afterward. All the the Board members contributed something to the celebration and pitched in with the work to make it happen, reportedly coordinated mostly by the Spirit. Stephen and his friend Dean made the main course, lasagna and garlic bread. There was also salad and a cake for dessert. The tables were set with candy favors, fresh flowers and cute little snowbirds.

Tammy addressed the team before the meal, and talked about the value they all bring to St Anthony’s. She also went from table to table to remind people to be good to each other and remember that their ministry, and the core values of hospitality, compassion, joyful service and relationship, also apply to how they treat each other. 

For the team, it was fun watching the Board put it all together, almost as much fun as the meal was because they were all really excited to do it.  It was also good for the “servers” to be served for a change. Most of all, it is nice for someone to not only notice your efforts but to show their appreciation for it.

For the gift of appreciation and the gift of service, as well as a chance to just relax and enjoy each other’s company, we say Deo Gratias!