Supporters and faithful alike gathered at Benet Hill Monasteryfor an annual fundraising event Saturday designed to buildcommunity.
The event, now in its third year, was conceived by co-chair JoanKlein.
'I thought that there should be an event to help the sisters. Weneed to get young people to know the sisters, and this year thereare a lot more children,' she said.
Klein is an administrator at Art Klein Construction Inc, whichconstructed the sister's residential building in the pines. She'sbeen involved with the sisters for more than 30 years.
There was a friendly ball python from the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo,a petting zoo, inflatables, facepaint, and spin art for thechildren.
Under a blue sky, the New Horizons Combo Band of Colorado Springsplayed relaxing music (including a instrumental rendition of 'Fly Meto the Moon'), children played and shrieked. About 600 peopleattended the event, which lasted from 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Bliss Krucas, event chair, said, 'Everything has been beyond ourexpectations. The sponsors have given so generously.' Sponsorsincluded Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Rocky Mountain Health CareServices, and was attended by former Denver Nuggets player BillHanzlik, and former Denver Broncos player Randy Gradishar.
'We're more than grateful for their donations,' said Krucas.
Sister Rose Ann Barmann estimated that this year's event wouldraise about $30,000, which goes to the ministries and services ofthe Benet Hill sisters.
'It's really pulled off by the committee and volunteers,' shesaid. 'This is also an opportunity for the community and families toget together.'
There has been a long history of community and ministry at theBenet Hill Monastery, and Benedictine sisters have been active inColorado since 1914.
Sandy Kinchen, director of ministries at Benet Hill Monastery,said they are there 'for peoples of all religions and cultures.Everyone has a desire to find their own spiritual path.'
There are different labels, but same community. 'We're likefamily,' reminded Krucas.
