The Knights of Columbus Peace Council 4518 in Ridley Township hosted its annual Sisters’ Appreciation Dinner, a cherished tradition that has spanned over 60 years. The event, held the week before Thanksgiving, aims to honor Religious Sisters for their commitment to service and education within the community.
Ken Babicki, the Grand Knight of Peace Council 4518, expressed the significance of the gathering, stating, “It’s a tradition here and one of the best nights of the year for us.” Approximately 75 Religious Sisters from Delaware County and surrounding areas attended this year’s dinner, where they were treated to a full-course turkey meal, festive music, and various holiday gifts.
Rev. John Flanagan, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Havertown, mingled with attendees, including Sister James Anne Feerick, IHM, who had previously taught him in first grade. This personal connection highlights the lasting impact that these Sisters have had on the lives of their students.
The evening was not just about food; it also featured lively entertainment. DJ John Scibello played a mix of popular party and holiday tunes that kept the atmosphere vibrant and encouraged dancing. Many Sisters expressed their enjoyment of the event, with Sister Rose Harlan, IHM, reflecting on her 10 to 12 years of attendance, appreciating both the camaraderie and the kindness shown by the Knights.
The event’s organization was led by Jerry DeMartini, who has coordinated the dinner for over 25 years. He noted, “This event is important to me because I like to give back and show my gratitude.” The Knights of Columbus employed Capozzoli Catering to prepare the meal, allowing volunteers to interact more with the Sisters.
Each guest received a festive holiday corsage, generously donated by Marvil Lyons Funeral Home, which added a special touch to the evening. Volunteers, including Debbie Liberatore and others, worked tirelessly in the kitchen to ensure everything ran smoothly.
For many attendees, the highlight of the night was the arrival of Santa Claus, played by Chuck Bradford. He distributed holiday gifts and door prizes, creating a joyful atmosphere as Sisters shared their Christmas wishes. “This is the best number of attendees that we’ve had since before COVID,” remarked Knight Ron Liberatore. The diverse representation of communities, including the Immaculate Heart, Franciscan, and St. Joseph Sisters, showcased the event’s broad appeal.
The Knights of Columbus Peace Council 4518, which has about 316 active members, supports several parishes, including Our Lady of Peace and St. Rose of Lima. Their community engagement extends beyond this annual dinner; they also participate in various charitable activities, such as providing food for families in need and celebrating memorials for deceased Knights.
Overall, the Sisters’ Appreciation Dinner not only celebrates the contributions of Religious Sisters but also strengthens the bonds within the community. As Ken Babicki noted, “We grew up with Religious Sisters and most of us received our education from them. This is our way to thank the Sisters for their vocation and for all they did for us through the years.” The event remains a testament to the enduring relationships formed through service and education, highlighting the importance of gratitude and connection in the community.
