lans Are Underway For LIFEfest 2011

A beautiful fall weekend added to the excitement of LIFEfest 2010, the Franciscan Life Process Center’s annual scholarship fund-raiser held this past October 9 and 10.  With a Saturday night, Evening of Inspiration, taking place for the first time off-site, guests were treated to an elegant night at the Grand Rapids Ballet Peter Martin Wege Theatre.  Special guest author and university professor Elizabeth M. Kelly provided the inspiring talk. 

The next day, guests gathered at the Lowell location, enjoying a morning Mass led by visiting priest, Father Cornelius Murray with music provided by the St. Roberts of Newminster Youth Ensemble.  A Country Sampler began afterwards.  Visitors feasted on “walking tacos”, caramel apples and other treats while playing games, listening to the music of the Hall Street Entertainment, enjoying the horse-drawn wagon rides and more.  This year, the Country Store was expanded to include fine arts, additional canned and baked goods, pottery and other hand-crafted items.
 
All monies raised from this annual benefit directly support the Franciscan Center’s scholarship programs, which provide subsidies for preschool tuition and music and art scholarships for families and individuals needing financial assistance.  Last year, over $60,000 in scholarships were awarded to those in need.

Plans are already underway for LIFEfest 2011.  Be sure to watch this website and the Troubadour newsletter for dates and additional information.