St. Lawrence Knights of Columbus Hold Blood Drive

The St. Lawrence Knights of Columbus held a blood drive at the Bethany Center on December 19. The organization has been holding blood drives twice a year for the past 20-something years but this is only the second time they have collected at the church's Bethany Center, said member Walter Kedjierski.

"We have had a great turnout and a pretty steady flow of donors after each of the masses," Kedjierski said, noting that the drive was located next to the church, making donating an easy task for parishioners.

The Knights of Columbus also did some publicity surrounding the event, advertising in local papers and websites in hopes of drawing added participation. The Knights of Columbus were also doing double duty throughout the event, delivering food to the homebound and those in need in the community.

"We are delivering turkeys to those in need today as well as overseeing the blood drive throughout the day," said member Jim Lane. "We do these dinners on the Sunday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday before Christmas every year. We also deliver presents to those in need on Christmas Day."

On February 24, the St. Lawrence Knights of Columbus will be sponsoring a community theater night. "Vanities" will be presented at the Clare Rose Playhouse at St. Joseph College in Patchogue at 8 p.m. The event is free of charge but any donations collected from attendees will be given to the parish's faith formation. There is limited seating available. To reserve a space, call Tom O'Brien at (631) 848-6211.