The serene halls of the monastery that is home to the sisters of the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration of Cleveland bustled with activity on the morning of Nov. 2 as nearly 70 supporters turned out for the annual fundraising gala. The event benefited the unique order of sisters who kneel before the Blessed Sacrament 24/7 to pray for the needs of anyone who calls their prayer line.
The day began with a Mass celebrated on All Souls Day at the Conversion of St. Paul Shrine, which is connected to the monastery. Father John Bednarik, OFM Cap, chaplain for the Poor Clares, focused his homily on the importance of praying for the dead as they go through the process of purification in Purgatory.
(See photo gallery above.)
Many people stayed after Mass to greet the sisters in the visiting parlor, where members of the cloistered order received guests behind a screen.
The celebration continued at La Dolce Vita in Little Italy, which included a luncheon, a live and silent auction.
(See photo gallery above.)
Keynote speaker was Mike Fratello, former Cleveland Cavaliers coach. This was the second year Fratello volunteered his time to support the sisters. He shared some personal stories of growing up Catholic, and recounted highlights of his storied career in basketball. Fratello credits his faith with helping him rebound from some of the tough losses he experienced.
“Faith helps give you the strength to go back into the locker room and tell the players what they need to hear so they can show up the next day ready to play again,” he said.
Fratello pivoted from talking about basketball to signing soccer balls for children at the luncheon.
Retired professional soccer player Otto Orf, who now runs HandsOnSports, a foundation dedicated to providing opportunities for young people of all backgrounds to play soccer, donated the balls to help spread the joy that comes from supporting the nuns.
“The nuns give to others, especially those in great need, constantly and consistently through prayer. It is my great pleasure to do what I can to help them continue their mission.” Orf said.
“There were lots of smiles on the faces of both children and adults who attended this year’s event,” said Sharon Deitrick, who heads the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration Foundation. She said the fundraiser generated almost $40,000 for the sisters, which will help defray their living expenses, including higher grocery bills.
Click here for more information about the Poor Clares or to make a donation for their support.