“It was a great evening with lots of energy and enthusiasm,” said staff member, Sister Ann Hoffman, when describing the spirit of the annual Benetwood Christmas Dinner. Board members facilitated the happy hour and served the guests wine. Sister Pat Hause, administrator, and her staff extended the warm welcome and hospitality for which they are known. Sister Anne Wambach, prioress, prayed, “Bless our time together. Bless our lives together—the friendships we have made here at Benetwood . . .”

It was indeed a blessed evening. Thanks to the generous gift of an anonymous benefactor, the cost of the dinner was covered in full making it possible for the residents to be relieved of extra fundraising and anxiety. As a result, 93 folks, including staff and board members, enjoyed the meal catered by Sabella’s. Entertainment was provided by the Sweet Adelines (a.k.a. Flagship City Show Chorus). This group of women singers, committed to advancing the musical art form of barbershop harmony, brought their motto to life through their performance and showed that they are truly "Real Women, Real Harmony, Real Fun!"

The spirit of Christmas fostered by this event helped to create a wonderful memory. It was a night that will be remembered for a long time to come.