St. Polycarp of Smyrna Men's Guild

In 2007, the men of St. Francis formed this organization to support our common parish life. The events organized by St. Polycarp always involve food and generally involve prodigious quantities of smoke and fire. Our inaugural event was a Sunday afternoon all-parish barbecue, followed closely by the Kevin McCommon Ice Cream Social (which happily involved ice, along with the aforementioned smoke and fire). The 2008 Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper and Meatfest was well received by the Parish, not considering comments about the lack of food items that weren't cholesterol-ridden. John Hays did his best by whipping up homemade whole wheat pancakes that were actually good for one's system and he promises his quest for healthy eating will continue: wonders never cease. Upcoming events include the annual parish Shrove Tuesday Pancake and Fried Meat Dinner (presumably involving only limited quantities of smoke and fire).

The first meeting of 2009 occurred on Sunday, January 11th, and the mission of St Polycarp may expand beyond the four walls of St. Francis. Victor Carsrud chaired the meeting and made the motion to offer volunteer drivers for those who need a ride to Father Peter's Sunday afternoon service. His motion was enthusiastically adopted. Victor Carsrud will coordinate with Fr. Peter. Since roasting meat remains the specialty, burnt offerings will be provided for the reception after the February 14th Ordering of Timothy Williams and Andrew Brummett. Prior experience leads to the conclusion that there will be enough left over for the coffee hour after the Confirmation which will be held on the 15th. Church repairs were also discussed which would, naturally, be accompanied by various eatables on the grill. The repair discussion ranged from a quick clean-up for the Bishop's visit to potential repairs to the buildings that would minimize expense and maximize elbow grease.

2009 will be an exciting time for any man seeking fun, food, and involvement in a very viable and manly men's group. Old and new pick-up trucks, convertibles, and snazzy grilling equipment welcome. All men of the parish are encouraged to participate. All members of the parish are encouraged to enjoy the results.

John Stults

Victor Carsrud (the Go-to man)

Raymond Merrill (and the one to come up with the name for the group)