Saint Martha's Altar Society
“For lay people, this evangelization…is accomplished in the ordinary circumstances of the world….The true apostle is on the lookout for occasions of announcing Christ…either to unbelievers…or to the faithful” (CCC 905).
We, the women of St. John Vianney, have numerous opportunities to “announce Christ” by stepping forward to make our parish a more welcoming place. Join the many women of St. John Vianney Catholic Church who help our parish be a vibrant and welcoming community. Become active in St. Martha’s Altar Society. We have a wonderful mix of ages, fostering friendships that might not otherwise blossom. Being a part of St. Martha’s Altar Society (affectionately called “SMAS”) is free and benefits the women involved, our parish, and the community of Belgrade.
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Currently, St Martha’s is meeting on an “as needed” basis, which tends to be 4-5 times per year on a Thursday evening. St. Martha’s members receive an emailed notice a week before each meeting. These meetings are held to plan, serve and socialize. We start meetings with prayer, share some reflections, then tend to business. This entire process typically takes around one hour, followed by socializing for those who choose to stay and visit.
Participation is flexible, ranging from attending every meeting to simply providing a dish for a reception on occasion. All women registered as parishioners are considered “members” and thus receive SMAS emails. Events and services of Saint Martha's are listed below.
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Please contact St. Martha’s leadership at sjvsmas@gmail.com for more information, or simply join us at our next meeting. If you are a registered parishioner but do not receive St. Martha’s emails, (1) check your spam box and (2) email us so we can add you to the mailing list.
Ladies' Luncheon
Each year SMAS provides an opportunity for women of the parish to get to know one another better by meeting newcomers and simply socializing and enjoying one another's company. The event includes a wonderful meal and some awesome door prizes!
Saint Patrick's Day Dinner
Each year the ladies with Saint Martha's put on a Saint Patrick's Day dinner and silent auction to raise funds for their various charitable efforts including Legendary Lodge Scholarships.
Guess Who's Coming to Dinner
Guess Who's Coming to Dinner is an evening event consisting of a three course meal hosted in different locations. The catch is that the guests and hosts don't know who will be at each dinner party until the evening of the event! It is a wonderful way to get to know other parishioners each year.
Legendary Lodge Scholarships
Saint Martha's offers scholarships each year for students wishing to attend Legendary Lodge, our diocesan summer camp. Please click the button below to access the application form. Students applying for a scholarship must submit a written essay explaining why they are requesting the scholarship and how the scholarship will aid them in growing in their faith. Applications for 2025 are due February 3rd.
Service and Giving
Funds raised by SMAS are used to support parishioners in their faith-centered endeavors, as well as various Church apostolates, such as the following:
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St. Jude Fund in our parish
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Divine Mercy Academy
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Legendary Lodge Youth Scholarships
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St. John Vianney’s high-chairs, Father’s Day prayer cards, and a new TV in RE Center
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Diosecan Son Light Celebration, annual Helena Women’s Conference
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College students serving at the Guatemala Mission; Eagle Scout project​​​​​​
Advent Giving Tree and Lenten Sacrifice Tree
Every year SMAS will set up a Giving Tree for Advent and and Sacrifice Tree for Lent. On the trees are various ways to live out each penitential season through prayer and almsgiving. Almsgiving items are either in the form of monetary donations or material goods. Items that have been featured on our trees include donations for: Zoe Care, Family Promise, Warming Shelter, spiritual bouquets for our priests, deacons, and pope.