Preceptor Pi Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi met Nov. 6 at the home of Susan Brown. Susan Coulson served as co-hostess. President Jeri Brozek led the meeting.
Susan Brown introduced Sister Jane Belanger, who spoke to the group about Heartland Farm, located 14 miles west of Great Bend in Rush County and operated by the Dominican Sisters of Peace. The farm consists of an 80-acre homestead with organic gardens, croplands and pastures, a prairie labyrinth and many trails. A wooded creek and two ponds offer habitat for the native species.
The rural setting expands the initiatives of the Dominican Sisters’ Heartland Center for Spirituality and Center for Wholistic Health, working for the integration of body, mind and spirit. People are welcome to come to Heartland Farm as a retreat for deepening their spirituality, reconnecting with the land and enjoying the nutritious food and simple lifestyle. Alpacas also are raised on the farm and the alpaca wool is used for spinning and weaving. They offer workshops in these fiber crafts and provide other informational programs as well.
Karen Reif reported on the chapter’s November service project. The chapter purchased and donated one dozen shampoo-with-comb lice kits to a local elementary school.
Linda Jerke presented a Beta Brief from the Torch, newsletter of Beta Sigma Phi International, featuring Beta Sigma Phi chapters who have undertaken meaningful projects to honor those who serve in the military.
Social chair Lois Johnson reported the chapter’s November social will be a Pilgrim Fest at 6 p.m. on Nov. 17 at First Christian Church for members, their spouses and other guests. Wheatland Café will cater the traditional Thanksgiving meal.
The Oct. 16 Preceptor Pi meeting was held at the home of Lois Johnson. President Jeri Brozek led the meeting.
Linda Jerke presented a Beta Brief featuring an article from The Torch about two Beta Sigma Phi chapters on opposite coasts who have found ways to support Angels in Flight, a nonprofit organization providing free air transportation for various humanitarian causes.
Members were encouraged to participate in Bras for a Cause, a local project sponsored by Beta Sigma Phi Chapter Xi Delta Upsilon in October to make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.
Social chair Lois Johnson reported five members enjoyed the chapter’s October Fest – a shopping trip to Hays on Oct. 13 including lunch at Gella’s.
Johnson presented the program on the history and origin of Halloween, which began with ancient Celtic rituals led by Druid priests celebrating the end of the growing season and entrance into the winter months.
The next meeting of Preceptor Pi will be at 7 p.m. on Nov. 20. Susan Coulson will serve as hostess and the place is to be announced. Jeanne Schmitt will be co-hostess and Judy Krebaum will present a program honoring the nation’s veterans. Members are invited to bring photos of family members who have served their country in the military.