The Daughters of Isabella, Circle 638 of Caribou met Sept. 6 at the Parish Center.
Regent Mary Ellen Field called the meeting to order.
Members celebrated birthdays for July, August and September. Elizabeth Beaulieu received the gift for July and Gail Hjort for August. No one was present for September. All sang “Happy Birthday.”
Elizabeth Beaulieu won the 50/50 raffle and returned her winnings to the Circle.
State Secretary Leah Girardin from Presque Isle was a guest. Her message was, ”Follow your heart in Jesus always.”
Chancellor Jeanine Morneault led opening prayer, including the Memorare. The group participated in the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call of officers was conducted. The secretary’s report was read and approved for June.
Correspondence included a thank-you card from the family of Richard Saucier and verbal thanks were expressed by: Gail Hjort, Mary Ellen Field, Elaine Haines, Dolores D. Martin and Debbie Chabre, who thanked everyone for their overwhelming support and prayers.
Vice Regent Elaine Haines reported visiting many shut-ins during the summer months, bringing them circle news. Get-well or thinking-of-you cards were sent to Norma Shaw, Josephine St. Peter and Omerine Cyr, and one will be sent to Theresa Ouellette’s husband, Richard, who is ill.
Past Regent Gail Hjort reported four layettes were given out during the summer months. Gail asked if anyone had large bags to put the layettes in and Michelle Hersey volunteered to bring some in. The group voted to donate a small layette and $25 to the International Circle for the convention in Nevada in August.
The 40 Week Club has started, and the project benefits both state and local circles.
Dolores Martin said the fundraiser discount cards were on order. This is the 10th year for these cards, proceeds from which benefit many charities.
Members were reminded to recite the Rosary on the day they sign up for the 31 Club.
A pilgrimage to the Holy Door in Frenchville was held Sept. 11. Buses were available and dinner was at the Community Center. Mass was celebrated at 3 p.m. with Father Jean-Paul LaBrie as principal celebrant. Some members volunteered to help with the table catering at the dinner.
Regent Mary Ellen Field gave highlights of the International Convention in Nevada. A new award was set up by the International Circle to honor patroness Queen Isabella. The circle will create a ballot listing all members, with a vote held on the top three who are involved in church and community. During the October meeting members will vote.
Mrs. Dow from the Caribou United Baptist Church asked the Circle to participate in the recognition dinner, held Sept. 9 at the fire station, honoring police officers, EMTs, firefighters and sheriffs.
The refreshment committee included Phyllis Brown, Tina Sirois, Sandra Gagnon, Lucille Wark and Jeannine Belanger.
