~ The Auxiliary's Objectives ~
- To assist in the development of Christian;
- To develop outreach programs, visit the sick, and care for the needy;
- To assist with Parish activities.
~ Motto ~
The motto of the Auxiliary is "Women Serving God, the Church and the Community."
~ The History of the Ladies Auxiliary Ministry ~
In 1950, the late Amy Burnside (mother of Ruth Burnside-Symonette) of Delancy Street visited Miami, Florida where she was introduced to a group of Catholic Women who served the church as their main function, assisting in every area possible.
Mrs. Burnside was so impressed that she brought the idea home to her Cathedral Parish of St. Francis Xavier. She formed a similar group which adopted the name SODALITY. The sodality made its first appearance at the Annual May Procession where they wore all white.
The purpose of the group is to encourage Catholic Women to be of service to the Church, the community and to be witnesses of God and the Catholic faith. St. Francis Xavier Auxiliary is the oldest group in the Diocese.
Nurse Monica Davis was the group's President who was assisted by the youngest member of the group by the name Blanche Butler. Later the group changed its name from Sodality to the Ladies Guild, a name they carried for many years. It should be noted that Nurse Monica Davis served the Guild for 32 years.
The group assisted in forming similar groups at sister parishes in Nassau. The guild attended monthly masses, held regular meetings and assisted with taking care of the altar, church grounds and bazaars by hosting cake sales, cook-outs, Lenten and other seasonal tea parties and fashion shows.
The Ladies Guild creates yearly calendars for church visitation and fellowship. Each month the Guild visits a sister Parish starting with the mother church St. Francis Xavier in January.
~ Membership ~
Membership in the Auxiliary is open to females members of the Parish who are eighteen (18) years and older.