Empty Bowl Event

     This afternoon I attended the 3rd Annual EMPTY BOWL EVENT benefiting the Westmoreland County Food Bank.  This event, described with the words "Craft a bowl, feed your soul, and help the hungry" on its program was held at Saint Bruno Parish Hall in Greensburg, Pennsylvania.

     Locally the Event has been spearheaded by Karen Piper of North Huntingdon, a member of our parish of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton.  She, along with a great group of helpers, encourages individuals and groups to design and paint ceramic bowls that are then made available at the annual event.  For a donation, you have the opportunity of choosing a bowl, enjoying a cup of soup provided by one of over twenty five restaurants along with bread from the sponsoring organization - Panera Bread - and enjoying fellowship and entertainment.  All the proceeds go to the Westmoreland County Food Bank which serves over 7,000 families each month who do not have enough to eat.  Over the last two years thousands of dollars have been given to WCFB to help those in need.  Today's event will add to that total.

     The event was great.  I had a great time helping and truly enjoyed the food.  I also enjoyed painting a couple of bowls earlier on at a parish gathering to support this cause ... one of which was decorated by my "blowing paint bubbles" - truly a humbling experience for one my age.

     One of my favorite musicals is "Les Mis".  There is a line near the end that says: "To love another person is to see the face of God".  Today God's face became much clearer for many of us.  Thanks to Karen and all who showed their love for God's people.