Member Log InA wet, chili - er, chilly, wet Thursday evening didn't prohibit a crowd of nearly 40 folks from venturing out to attend the January General Membership Meeting of the JOCO Serra Club, held at St. Ann's Catholic Church in Mission, KS.
And what an event it was!
After opening remarks by club president, Rich Cofer, fellow Serran, Deacon Scott Tampke, led
a blessing and the Serran Prayer for Vocations. Seven talented chili cooks (photo right) provided a variety delicious chili to satisfy the appetites in the room. Pictured from left are John Caton (representing his wife, Claudia, who could not be present), Joane Wilkerson, Dale Romme (representing his wife, Catherine, who could not be present), Steve Kitts, Ginny Skoch, Jennifer Zielinski, and Connie Euston. Cooks also brought mouthwatering corn bread and there was a generous supply of cookies for dessert.
Keith Lilek (photo left), one of the club's founding members and a past president of the club - also known at The Catholic Mentee - gave an informative presentation about life's priorities while promoting his new book, Living Life's Priorities - Keith Lilek: Mentored From Above. His seventh publication, Keith's message resonated with spouse and family subordinate only to one's relationship with one's Creator God as life's top priorities. A song-writer, Keith also shared the products of his musical creativity with the group.
As the evening drew to a close, the winners of the Chili Cookoff were announced after votes were cast by those who tasted the cooks' creations. Votes were cast in cash, with all proceeds going to the support of priestly and religious vocations in the archdiocese. After recognition of all the cooks for their participation with a round of applause, Rich Cofer announced that a total of
$680 in votes were cast and announced the winners. Taking home the gold medal and a chili cook's apron was Catherine Romme, whose husband, Dale, graciously accepted on her behalf. The silver medal went to Claudia Caton and was accepted by her husband, John. Ginny Skoch took home the bronze medal.
Be sure to mark your calendars now for the February General Membership Meeting, to take place on Thursday, February 5, 2026, beginning with Mass at 6:00 PM in the adoration chapel at St. Ann's Church in Mission. This is the annual new member initiation night. Don't miss it!
