Pennies add up in Troy

For the past five years, the parish has participated in a Lenten program called "Pennies for Pesos."

Rev. James T. Spenard, OSA, pastor, said the parish raises about $2,000 in pennies and other coins that are collected and then donated to the California province of his religious order, the Augustinians, in an effort to help orphans in Mexico.

All involved

As Lent approaches, announcements appear in the weekly bulletin asking people to save pennies from Ash Wednesday until Easter. Father Spenard said that many parishioners look forward to saving their cents because they know it is for a good cause.

But the parish isn't choosy as to what type of coins it will take. Extra change of nickels, dimes and quarters is also gratefully accepted from those who wish to give more generously.

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"Some years ago, the Augustinians developed an outreach program to assist this orphanage in its operation and in caring for the children that live there. I think Father Meehan thought it would be a good way for the people of St. Augustine's to contribute to a program that was already established."

Counting on them

"Each year, our parishioners, school children and religious education classes are enthusiastic about saving their pennies," Father Spenard said.

He even knows of a few parishioners who keep a bowl on their desks at work all year for others to throw their pennies into, an activity that definitely makes cents.

(04-11-02) [[In-content Ad]]