You are invited to the 3rd annual Lenten Fish Dinner supporting the Dominican Sisters of Tacoma on March 23, 2018 starting at 4:30 P.M. in the Church Hall of Saint Patrick Catholic Church.

The Lenten Fish Dinner supporting the Dominican Sisters of Tacoma wraps the three Lenten Pillars— Prayer, Almsgiving and Fasting— all in one event as the end of the season of Lent approaches. Over 200 people attended the benefit on March 18, 2016 and again in 2017 in support of the Dominican Sisters who have given so much to Saint Patrick Catholic Church & School community and to the greater Tacoma community.

Honoring a Legacy of Faith and Learning

Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus Tacoma Council 809, the event honors the Dominican Sisters legacy of faith and learning. All proceeds benefit the Dominican Sisters of Tacoma. Your thoughtful contribution to their continued care and support is welcomed and appreciated. Did you know that the Dominican Sisters were instrumental in the opening of Saint Patrick Catholic School?

The Dominican Sisters Establish a School

The Dominican Sisters have a long history of contributions to the Saint Patrick Catholic Church and School community. In May 1893 the Dominican Sisters arrived in Tacoma to establish a school for Saint Patrick Catholic Church. The Tacoma Dominican Sisters began Saint Patrick Catholic School on September 7, 1893 with 70 students enrolled. It was to be the first official free parochial school west of the Mississippi River. The Sisters were to receive support by taking up a collection, in person, during the Masses on the first Sunday of each month.

 

Silver Tea Services Support the Sisters Through the Years

In addition to the monthly collection at Mass, neighbors and parishioners generously shared chickens, fruits and vegetables with the sisters. As time moved on, Silver Teas replaced the chickens and other means of making sure the sisters had enough food in their pantry. During the late 40s through the 60s, Silver Teas were a common occurrence for receptions and fundraisers. Silver Teas were a means of making sure the Dominican Sisters had enough food in their pantry. The Mothers’ Club of Saint Patrick Catholic School and Aquinas Academy, (the first Catholic High School in the Tacoma area) hosted Silver Teas back then, much like we host Fish Dinners today. The teas included a silver dish for donations.

This tea service was later used by the Sisters themselves at Marymount for jubilee celebrations and other large events. When the sisters sold Marymount, the motherhouse, the service was moved to the Tacoma Dominican Center and used through the early 2000’s for the annual tea sponsored by the Friends of the Tacoma Dominicans.

One of several Silver Tea Service used which has touched of many hands and hearts at Saint Patrick Catholic Church & School and Aquinas Academy will be raffled off at the Fish Dinner on March 23, 2018. Raffle tickets are $20 each and 100% of the proceeds benefit the Dominican Sisters of Tacoma. This is a wonderful way to support the Sisters and get to own piece of the cherished 125 year history we share with the Dominicans.

125 Years Later

Today, the parish school has maintained the original mission of the Dominican Sisters; to provide a quality Catholic education and nourish the faith life of our students. Come celebrate the 125th Anniversary of Saint Patrick Catholic School, meet these amazing women of faith, and honor them with financial gifts that will directly benefit the women that first formed Saint Patrick Catholic School. Net proceeds benefit the Tacoma Dominican Sisters. The collective goal is to raise $5,000 in their honor with the support of our community.

Let’s Pray Together

After food, fellowship and supporting the Dominican Sisters, join the faithful at Stations of the Cross in the Church starting at 7:00 P.M.

Support the Sisters

If you are unable to attend the event, show your support of the Dominican Sisters by making your generous donation today.