ECW News:

The ECW monthly meeting was December 12, 2011 with eleven ladies present.  Prayers were said, minutes were read, reports were given and we all took a few minutes for a debriefing of the Fall Bazaar.  It is always good to talk about what went well and what could be done next year to make it even better.  It was agreed that all in all it was a wonderful day and the proceeds will go to help local social service organizations and disadvantaged individuals.

Congratulations to the newly elected officers for 2012:

President: Lamona Lucas

Vice-President: Diane Hall

Secretary: Connie Johnson

Treasurer: Mary Porter

A Year in Review

Looking back over 2011 our ECW members have accomplished a lot – as always, our accomplishments were the results of hard work and the dedication of many of our church members.

• We hosted several Covered Dish Dinners including one to honor our winter visitors.  These are events that are enjoyed by many of our island friends as well as our members.
• The Annual Arts and Crafts Bazaar hosted over 60 vendors who reported a day of sales and fun.  The proceeds from the vendors went to Wilmer Hall.
• A small group of ECW members under the tutelage of Lamona Lucas, met, studied and completed all the requirements to become members of The Episcopal Community.  Several members attended a weekend retreat at Camp Beckwith to be installed and others were installed by “Skype.” The members met with Father Roy to discuss what the role of the members should be.  This meeting culminated in the Sisters of St. Francis being served communion by Father Roy.  The Sisters of St. Francis were recognized by the Bishop during his visit in July. 
• On June 28, 2011 ECW members hosted the reception following the Committal of Ashes for Frank Hawkins.  The loss of Frank brought much sorrow to our congregation but we were so grateful to be able to honor him with a lovely reception and to be able to share this time with Theo and family members.
• Bishop Duncan, his wife, Kathy and a visiting deacon visited on July 31, 2011.  ECW members again made this a memorable event by providing a lovely “stand up” lunch.  He was very pleased over our gift of gumbo.
• Perhaps the most fun thing ECW did this year was to celebrate the 90th birthday of our wonderful Jim Early!  He was surprised and we were thrilled.
• Our Fall Festival was in November.  We sold casseroles, gumbo, chicken salad sandwiches, baked goods, etc.  The lawn was covered with participants in our annual "Bring Your Own Garage Sale."
• We made gumbo (did we make gumbo? 160 gallons during the year!), pickles, Wimberly’s famous chicken salad, casseroles and much more.
• We were delighted to be able to contribute over $10,000 to community needs and projects.  This includes Camp Beckwith, Wilmer Hall, The Salvation Army, Bay Area Food Bank, Dauphin Island School projects, Ozanam Pharmacy and local individuals.

It has been my privilege and honor to serve as president for the past year.  St. Francis is indeed blessed to have such faithful members and I in turn have been blessed to be a part of this church and the ECW organization.

Our next ECW meeting is Monday, January 9, 2012 10:00, Wilkins Hall.  Please join us.

Happy New Year!

Mary Porter

ECW President

Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling

1Peter 4:8-9