Farewell to Annie

Here are some pictures from the viewing, funeral service, and celebration of life; events that allowed us to gather in friendship to say farewell to our dear friend Annie.

Below is link to a video slide show of Annie with Refuge choir.  The songs in the video were written by Tina and Sal.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fx25ZvQ6oDg&feature=youtu.be

Just Us, minus Annie, performed five songs at the Celebration after funeral.

Mike performing with Just Us.

Shingle for Little Library
that will be erected in Annie's honor.

At the funeral service.

Tina and friends perform during the Celebration after funeral.

Refuge at the viewing.

Goodbye Annie

Early this morning Refuge lost our sister in music ministry. Annie was a friend to all and a work colleague to several of us. Some of us knew her for 25 years, and collaborated with her in music ministry at Old Dominion University Catholic Campus Ministry before she helped found Refuge in 2011. We shared a LOT of musical joy and fellowship with Annie. Our prayer is that she now rests in peace and comfort in the loving arms of God.

Celebrating May Birthdays

After practice Refuge celebrated May birthdays of Tina, Mark and Mansy.  Thanks to Nilda for bringing delicious cheesecake!

R. I. P. Father Jim

Refuge choir members attended the funeral Mass for Father Jim Parke at Church of the Ascension in Virginia Beach. Father Parke is in the DNA of Refuge. He presided over many Masses for Catholic Campus Ministry at Old Dominion University, from which half of Refuge came to combine with Chirst the  King Sunday evening music ministers in 2011. Then, in fall of 2011, Refuge served as music ministry for Father Jim when he said Masses for a few students and faculty on Sunday evenings at Virginia Wesleyan University. Father Jim was always complimentary and supportive of Refuge. 

R.I.P. Gerry

Last week Refuge lost our new friend Gerry. Though he only sang with the choir a short time, he touched our hearts with his smile and gentle grace. He seemed to truly love the fellowship and friendships he found in Refuge. 

Fellowship and Birthday Celebration

Refuge enjoyed dinner fellowship and a birthday celebration at Sal's comfy home.

Celebrating Birthdays

After Mass Refuge celebrated Nilda's and Barry's birthdays.