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The Cookie Disciples Ministry Deliciously Shares Baking Talents to Serve Our Parish
It’s not difficult to imagine fresh-baked homemade cookies — they smell and taste delicious, and may even melt in your mouth. There is simply no store-bought cookie that can compare. Thanks to a dedicated group of more than 60 parishioners that make up our Cookie Disciples Ministry, our parish retreats, meetings, and events here at St. Benedict Cathedral are well-stocked with homemade cookies!
The Cookie Disciples started with a group of 12 women but has expanded through time. Donna Halverson helps coordinate this ministry, while Fr. Godfrey Mullen is jokingly called “chief cookie taster” — he might sneak one or two cookies when they are collected at church!
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“There’s just something special about homemade cookies,” Donna says. “They’re of all different shapes and ingredients. They smell much better than a store-bought cookie.”
Signing up for this ministry includes a commitment to bake four dozen cookies at least four times per year. Volunteers also receive a letter and prayer, on a recipe card from Fr. Godfrey.
The group had been on a hiatus since there weren’t any large events due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this past August, members jumped right back into the ministry, making 700 cookies for the Back to School Bash and Parish Picnic. There are even a few bakers who make gluten-free treats for events like this.
This ministry is easy if you like to bake — there are no meetings and it can be done on your own time. It also fits all ages. Our cookie ministers range in age from their early 20s to bakers in their 70s. Donna appreciates the willingness to help that she sees in all the Cookie Disciples.
“Baking is creative and joyful,” she says. “It’s a way to give back to the church on your time.”
In the past, the Cookie Disciples have been called on for events like the installation of Bishop Siegel and Fr. Godfrey’s 25th-anniversary lunch. Volunteers are always ready to bake.
“I’m always astounded by the willingness of these bakers,” Donna says. “They all have a wonderful attitude. They are baking for others, and it’s a way to give on their own time. It’s creating. It gives the kitchen a great smell.”
The Cookie Disciples Ministry made cookies for our Parish Picnic and Back to School Bash.
