Familiar faces reunite at St. Francis Xavier annual auction

Courtesy of Saint Francis Xavier School

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Courtesy of Saint Francis Xavier School

KEARNS — As the evening began, the guests mingled and a buzz rolled across the room as many old familiar faces re-entered the Saint Francis Xavier School building – no longer as students but as guests. This year’s 28th Annual "From the Heart" Auction hosted more than 30 returning alumni, family and friends.

"It was an incredible feeling, seeing so many of the alumni come back to support St. Francis Xavier Catholic School," said Lisa T. Rose, the school’s event coordinator. "They gave of their time as donors, patrons, servers and even as bartenders for our worthwhile event. It was such a rush as I looked around the room and realized how many alumni had joined us that evening. When they were asked to stand to be recognized, a hush filled the room followed by an enormous outpouring of applause. It brought tears to my eyes."

The silent auction, filled with over 200 baskets of donated items from the community, awaited winning bids. Following the silent auction, everyone sat down to a dinner prepared by Wriggles Catering, and then awaited the infamous video that reminds all in the room, each year, why they have gathered.

The video, created by Mr. and Mrs. Manny Montoya, parents at St. Francis Xavier School, included an array of beautiful photos of the students in the school. After everyone was reminded of why "From the Heart" is such an important event at St. Francis Xavier School, the live auction began.

"It was a remarkable event and evening," said Patrick Reeder, St. Francis Xavier School principal. "I was in awe of all our returning alumni and past parents who supported the auction. It was, by far, the best auction that we have had in years, thanks to the support of our patrons, families, faculty, past parents, and alumni."

Joe Metro, auctioneer for the evening, and Matt Dumont, the master of ceremonies, had the crowd’s support as they auctioned off more than 30 live auction items, nine of which were created by the individual classes of St. Francis Xavier.

By the end of the evening, many new friendships were formed and old ones rekindled as the community thanked God for all the love and support shown by all who attended, donated and volunteered to make the 28th Annual "From the Heart" Auction a tremendous success.