The NFCA Proudly Recognizes "Fraternalists-in-Action"

Fraternal MVP—Week of May 26, 2008

The National Fraternal Congress of America (NFCA) is proud to recognize the following individual as a Fraternal MVP (Most Valuable Participant) for the week of May 26, 2008. Fraternal MVPs are “Fraternalists-in-Action” who volunteer their time, energy and compassion to strengthen their communities through participation in local lodge activities and other charitable endeavors.

Mary Ann Barten
The Catholic Aid Association

St. Andrew Council #324

Greenwald, Minnesota

Mary Ann Barten has been with Catholic Aid for as long as she can remember. Her father, Dan Spanier, was the fraternal secretary of the Spring Hill Council. Her oldest brother, Math, took the job after their father’s death.

She has enjoyed being the fraternal secretary of St. Andrews Council #324 for 24 years. She has held the office of Family Affairs in the Melrose Deanery and is the financial secretary for the local Joan of Arc Circle of the Daughters of Isabella. She also serves as the local and state Literature Chairman. She belongs to a "Why Catholic" group. Mary Ann participates in the Greenwald Christian Mothers, a quilters group and the Crocier Apostalate. She volunteers for St. Michaels Hospice of Sauk Centre and is active with Relay for Life for the West Central Stearns Cancer Unit.

In her spare time, Mary Ann enjoys vegetable and flower gardening, quilting, playing cards, crocheting, reading, sewing, baking, cooking and babysitting.

Mary Ann has been married to her husband, Ray, for almost 60 years, and they have eight children, 44 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren, most of whom are Catholic Aid members.

The NFCA salutes Fraternalists-in-Action for their dedication, kindness and generosity. They embody the heart of fraternalism through their volunteer efforts and commitment to their communities.


To view previous week's MVPs, click here.