HICKORY — Members of the Emmaus Family of St. Aloysius Parish recently performed one of the 50 Charity Acts commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Diocese of Charlotte.

During a full day’s work, a group of more than a dozen volunteers covered a 320-square-foot area with topsoil and renovated more than 360 square feet of landscaping. The new patio, which has been furnished with benches, serves as a place of meditation for those attending the different spiritual activities hosted by the Catholic Conference Center, while the green areas look more orderly and clean.

Brother Freddy García, who coordinated the execution of the work with Deacon Scott D. Gilfillan, the center’s director, said, “The brothers of the Emmaus Family were enthusiastic about the project, they worked with joy and zeal in the execution and were very happy with the results.”

“Everyone brought food, sandwiches, fruit, ice water and shared lunch. It was a true community work party,” he added.

— César Hurtado. Photo provided by Freddy Garcia