One of the really awesome things about small town living is the closeness of the community. Also, as a small community there is a sense of belonging and celebrating those that make that community such a nice place to live. Abita Springs, La is such a community! This weekend, at our local town fair, the community gathered to honor two community leaders.
Betty and Calvin Cognevich can be spotted about town almost every day of the week. They have been married for a little over 10 years now. Calvin is in his eighties and Betty is a few years younger. They were married years after both lost their first spouse. What makes them remarkable is that they span the gap of community involvement. Calvin served for many years as a town alderman. He is an officer in the VFW and the Knights of Columbus. Betty is an officer in both these groups ladies auxiliary. Both Calvin and Betty have volunteered at the local hospital.
Their faith and involvement at St. Jane de Chantal Church is also admirable. Betty heads up the bereavement committee and volunteers around the parish. Calvin has been a member of almost every committee and served as a lector, extrordinary minister of Holy Communion and sang in the choir.
Together, they practice their faith. Almost everyone around the parish, not to mention the town, knows them. They can be spotted many mornings doing their exercise or just off to another volunteer event.
This morning they were honored at a breakfast where I was very honored to lead the invocation and pray for and with these great examples of Christian service. They remind me of that great Scripture verse from St. Matthew 5:16: "let your light shine before others that they may see your good works and give glory to God in heaven."
Congratulations Calvin and Betty!
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