On Saturday, May 17th, the Inreach Committee hosted its second annual ladies benefit tea with a Downton Abbey theme. The event was coordinated by Judy Steffens and Susan Edmonson with other Inreachers and volunteers (David Edmonson, Bill Harper, Rosemary Hobart, Stocky Hobart, Paula Hogg, Toni Hogg, Vestal Lewis, Kay Olson, Carrie Quinn, Barbara Williams) pitching in to help with tea, food, flowers, set-up, and clean-up. About 40 guests were treated to several British teas (including two Downton Abbey selections) and delicious homemade goodies such as blueberry scones, cucumber and pimento cheese sandwiches, Virginia ham biscuits, cookies, chocolates, and mints.
Guests were asked to bring a gift card donation from McDonald Nursery, Countryside Gardens, Lowe’s or Home Depot. These gifts are continuing to arrive and currently total more than $1000 and will benefit the newly formed St. John’s Garden Guild’s efforts in replanting our church grounds. Many thanks to all who contributed!
By total coincidence, two couples from England were visiting St. John’s and stopped into the parish hall during the tea. After touring the church with our rector, they were invited to join us and generously contributed to the fundraising effort. One couple are members of an older St. John’s Church in their own community.
Originally published in St. John’s Epistle, June 2014.