The Knights of Columbus from St. Francis of Assisi Church are looking for some folks who like barbecue and want to help some friends in need.

In the early morning on April 26, a fire completely destroyed the building that housed St. Paul the Apostle Church in Cleveland, a mission of St. Francis of Assisi Church.

Since then, Father Thad Rudd of St. Paul the Apostle and his church have been seeking a new place for the now homeless mission of nearly 200 families to meet.

In late 2003, the church broke ground for a new building, which is currently under construction, but the parish does not yet have enough money to cover the cost.

Father Richard Wise, pastor of St. Francis of Assisi, felt an obligation to help the struggling mission. Their parishioners recently took up a collection, but more funds are needed. We are all part of this community, he said.

The Knights of Columbus St. Francis Council 11746 is stepping in by sponsoring a barbecue cookout to raise money for St. Paul’s.

On Saturday, July 10, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, July 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the council will hold a “pick-up” barbecue at the grounds of St. Francis, next to Marian Hall.

The meal, which costs $10, will include a half-chicken dinner with all the fixings. All of the proceeds will go to St. Paul’s building fund—the Knights are providing the food and the volunteers for the cookout. Donations for the fund are also welcome.

Jerry Rousseau, grand knight of the St. Francis Council, shared that their council is “acting in the manner of St. Francis: feeding the hungry, clothing the unclothed and helping those in need.”

Sam Ross, one of the coordinators of the barbecue, said that those who do not want to eat can still help. And help is greatly needed.

“Anyone who doesn’t want to partake of the meal can mail donations. All donations will be appreciated and accepted,” he said.

To send a donation to the St. Paul building fund, send a check made payable to St. Francis of Assisi Church to the church office, 2839 Young Harris Highway, Blairsville, 30512.

For more information about the barbecue, contact Ross at (706) 745-9091.