Holy Ghost Brotherhood Mariense

“STATEMENT OF PROGRAM SERVICE ACCOMPLISHMENTS ITEM 1- The Holy Ghost Brotherhood was formed by Portuguese Americans to unite the community in the celebration of the traditions of the Azorean island of Santa Maria. The celebrations take the form of dinners and religious activities.”

“STATEMENT OF PROGRAM SERVICE ACCOMPLISHMENTS ITEM 2 -In summary, for seven weeks a crown is brought to a different members house for a one week time frame where prayer meetings are held. The crown is a symbol of the Holy Spirt of the Roman Catholic religion. This crown is brought to the households of both prayer and to introduce the younger members of the community to the tradtions of the Holy Ghost in the attempt to continue these tradtions. The annual feast is held during the first week of July and is the culmination of seven weeks of the prayer meetings previously mentioned.”

“STATEMENT OF PROGRAM SERVICE ACCOMPLISHMENTS ITEM 2 - When not celebrating the traditions mentioned above, the organization is engaged in helping the underprivileged and less fortunate. This has been done in the past by Thanksgiving dinners, open to all in need, toy drives for the needy at Christmas time and by providing assistance to those with special needs. For example, the Organization has in the past raised funds to assist families with large medical expenses as a result of cancer treatments, etc. From time to time the Organization also hosts dinners to feed the poor. In addition, proceeds from functions are used to fund future celebrations, feed local disadvantaged families, make contributions to local churches and provide scholarships to students.”