Cardinal George to be honored at Palatine fundraiser Friday

The Sisters of the Living Word will honor Cardinal Francis George for his 50th anniversary in the priesthood during the group's annual fundraiser Friday.

Tickets are still available for the Mardi Gras-themed event, which begins at 6 p.m. Friday at Cotillion Banquets, 360 S. Creekside Drive in Palatine, and includes dinner, drinks and entertainment.

The annual fundraiser collects money for the Sisters of the Living Word's local, regional and international programs.

"They work relentlessly. They own nothing, and it doesn't worry them in the least," said Arlington Heights resident Gary Colabuono, spokesman for the event.

Colabuono said that more than two-thirds of the sisters are retired or semiretired, but still engage in some form of ministry, including working with AIDS patients, promoting peace, feeding the hungry and helping the homeless.

"The sisters are practical, kind and down to earth," he said. "Working with them is amazing and extremely rewarding. Just being around them brings peace into my life."

Friday's fundraiser will include Creole-inspired dinner, drinks, a silent auction and the crowning of a Mardi Gras king and queen, along with a Mardi Gras parade with a procession of floats and costumes.

George will be honored with the Partner in Mission Award.

"The award is for someone who exemplifies the values of the Sisters of the Living Word," said Sister Sharon Glumb. "We wanted to make sure we didn't miss a chance to honor him while he was serving."

Tickets are $85 each and RSVPs are requested. To purchase tickets or for more information, contact Robin Shorden at (847) 577-5972.