by Cathy Slade

Back in the day, when the beloved Sisters of Saint Joseph we know so well were involved in educating young minds, who would have thought that many of them would be living together in houses or apartments, and not in convents? Who would have thought they would be performing "community work?" Who could have predicted they would be raising funds for such a ministry? And who could have imagined they would be in sync with the latest fundraising trends?

Well, that is the case at Casserly House, the CSJ neighborhood home on Stellman Road, where a fundraiser was held on October 7. The event was none other than a wine-tasting; an ever-popular way of raising money. And who did it attract? None other than the Mayor of the City of Boston. Talk about being in vogue!

Much has changed in religious life since the days when Sacred Heart School students were educated solely by the CSJs, and that could not have been more evident than at Casserly House, more affectionately known as "Sister Nancy's." There, four or five CSJs are always in residence, going off to administrative, nursing and teaching jobs by day, while Sister Nancy Braceland stays "home" and conducts basic English classes for new arrivals, oversees homework help to young students, and does community work throughout the neighborhood.

Though Casserly House is supported by the Congregation, some outside funding was needed to enhance the incredible work that that is being performed there. Sister Nancy had a wish-list of materials and supplies she knew would assist her in helping to improve the lives of those whom she serves, so she called upon Advisory Board members to work on a community fundraiser.

A few formed a committee and set out to determine the best type of event for the House. Sister Nancy thought the community should come to visit and get a feel for the neighborhood, see the program space, meet some people who are served, and feel comfortable about returning for a visit at any time. She wanted to attract both those who were and those who were not familiar with the ministry. So the event was held at the neighborhood house, despite its size and lack of parking, which members hoped would not deter anyone.

In a classic case of "all hands on deck," every Board member helped by planning, organizing, promoting, and inviting friends, neighbors and co-workers to the event. Never had Sister Nancy seen so much positive activity on the street or experienced such a feeling of camaraderie and fellowship in the house. She was thrilled with the results of all the planning and hard work.

About seventy friends, neighbors, CSJs, government representatives, and community leaders crammed into the first floor of the triple-decker which serves as the program area. All enjoyed good company and delicious food donated by MJ's Subs & Pizza, accompanied by various types of wine from around the world, donated and served by Maria Valencia of Solera "A Shrine to Wine" in Roslindale Village.

Mayor and Mrs. Menino were among the first to arrive, and they stayed quite a while socializing and having fun. Some of the young people who are served by Casserly House's programs made sure they stopped in to greet the Mayor. Many adults arrived in their native garb, adding color and flair to the evening. Speaking of color, beautiful floral arrangements donated by June Alexander adorned the place, and Janice Williams hung her artwork in the House as part of the Open Studios weekend. If anyone is familiar with Janice's work, you know it is quite colorful and lively, two adjectives that could also describe the evening's conversation and ambience.

The event was a success in more ways than one. It served its primary purpose as a fundraiser, but, to Sister Nancy, it served another significant goal, that of bringing new people to the house. Sister loves bringing people together in any way, at any time, for any reason. That evening, she was especially delighted that so many people, who had never before set foot in Casserly House, came and met some of her neighbors.

Ideas for next year's fundraiser are already swimming around in the minds of Casserly House residents, Advisory Board members, volunteers, friends and neighbors. Here's a wish for many more entertaining fundraisers in the future. After all, fun is in the word "fundraiser."