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Pacelli Catholic Schools took a chance and held their formerly spring annual benefit auction in the winter this year on Jan. 27. 

The Pacelli All Saints Arena was transformed from a gymnasium into a winter wonderland full of snowflakes, twinkle lights, and hints of green to fit this year’s theme, Shamrocks and Snowflakes. 

This year, through the generosity of donors and attendees, the annual benefit auction raised a record setting net proceeds of $279,450.00. These donations are an investment in the vision of Pacelli. 

The benefit auction included entertainment by the Pacelli Show Choir directed by Katy Bisanti as well as a dessert dash, wine pull, raffle and games of chance. Throughout the evening, attendees mingled while bidding on numerous silent auction donations from local businesses, alumni, and Pacelli supporters. 

Following a delicious dinner catered by Heather Holmen of Grinder’s Deli, patrons good naturedly outbid one another during the Live Auction. A trip to Tuscany, a full car detailing by Austin Mayor Steve King, and a custom C.C.I. Granite Table were just a few of the amazing items donated and bid on by this year’s guests. 

The purpose of the annual benefit auction each year is to help support continued Catholic education in the community of Austin. Pacelli’s mission is to establish in our children a lifelong foundation grounded in Christ’s love, faith in God, service to community, and academic achievement. 

During the event, a video created by proud Pacelli parents and volunteers was played which highlighted the core values of faith, scholarship and service by Pacelli students throughout the year. After witnessing the mission of Pacelli in action, attendees were invited to donate freely to the “Big Give” which helps fund scholarships, technology, curriculum and activities throughout the year. 

As author Henri Nouwen wrote in his book, “A Spirituality of Fundraising:” ‘We have a vision that is amazing and exciting. We are inviting you to invest yourself through the resources that God has given you — your energy, your prayers, and your money — in this work to which God has called us.” 

Our invitation is clear and confident because we trust that our vision and mission are like “trees planted by streams of water, which yield their fruit in its season, and their leaves do not wither’ (Ps. 1:3).” Pacelli’s 112 year legacy and tradition of strong Catholic education in Austin is a testament to God’s will. 

Thank you to everyone that felt called to provide their gifts and talents to make this year’s auction a success.