On a sunny Sunday evening in April, the Knights of Columbus from Council 7850 rolled up their sleeves to support the youth of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church during the annual C.R.E.W. Cookout.
PGKs Steve Gumm and Michael Flanagan grilled up over 80 burgers for high school students in the C.R.E.W. program (Confirmed Radically Empowered Witnesses). Grill Master Gumm manned the grill outside the Maintenance Garage near the Faith Formation Center, preparing food from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The burgers were then delivered to the Youth Room to keep warm for dinner.
The cookout marked the culmination of another year of fellowship, formation, and faith shared among the 110 students currently registered in C.R.E.W. The evening's meal—like every Sunday during the school year—was served by the “Munchie Ministers,” a team of dedicated adult volunteers who prepare home-cooked meals each week for over 120 attendees. Knights often help by grilling for events like this one, with meals ranging from nacho bars and sliders to pasta and full Thanksgiving-style spreads.
C.R.E.W. nights include Sunday Mass, dinner, praise and worship, faith talks, small group discussions, and testimonies from teens on their walk with Christ. Students on the C.R.E.W. Council serve as peer mentors and small group leaders, often returning after graduation as adult mentors. The program has even inspired vocations—including one former C.R.E.W. Council member now discerning the priesthood.
Beyond the weekly gatherings, students participate in retreats such as the Dallas Catholic Youth Conference (DCYC), where adoration remains a favorite among youth. No student is turned away due to financial hardship, thanks to generous support and scholarships provided by the parish.
“One teen who first encountered Christ at DCYC later led her entire family into the Catholic Church,” shared Beth Ann Apt, Faith Formation Ministry Assistant.
The program is coordinated by Bruce Baumann, Director of Faith Formation and a fellow Knight, with support from Roy Becerra, Youth Evangelization Coordinator, and a host of dedicated adult mentors.
Our Council is proud to stand beside the next generation of Catholic leaders.
Submitted by:
SK Craig Robinson
Grand Knight, Council 7850