Immaculate Conception Church launches gift drive

Immaculate Conception Church parishioners responded generously to this year's Christmas gifts program, which assists five different regional agencies in helping their needy clients have a more joyful Christmas season.

Dozens took part during the weekend of Nov. 17 and 18 by selecting a child or adult's request as printed on labels, many choosing more than one person.

The labels are then affixed to the wrapped gifts parishioners buy and the gifts are displayed on the steps of the sanctuary at masses Dec. 1 and 2 prior to being delivered to the regional agencies for their distribution. 

"The generosity of our parish members is amazing and so appreciated by those we help," Fr. Martin Schratz, OFM Cap., pastor said. "It really shines through as the true spirit of the holidays."

The program is coordinated by parishioner Jo Ann Kelly and assisted by many volunteers.