Frassati Fellowship builds ministry through Habitat project

School was back in session for several Frassati Fellowship members Aug. 23 as the young adults received a crash course in home building and sweat equity during a Habitat for Humanity project.

The Frassati members didn’t let the steamy dog days of summer deter them from hammering, caulking, wielding a nail gun … or sweating as they worked to create a new home for Jennifer Paul, who contributed her own sweat equity in renovating a craftsman style home in North Knoxville.

Members of the Frassati Fellowship of young adults have been helping build a house for a Knoxville family. The Diocese of Knoxville group includes, from left, Cozette Sanders, Caleb Scrobak, Alvine Manabat, Angela Strong, Elijah Martin, Mariclair Tan, and Andrew Giminaro. Photo by Stephanie Richer

Members of the Frassati Fellowship of young adults have been helping build a house for a Knoxville family. The Diocese of Knoxville group includes, from left, Cozette Sanders, Caleb Scrobak, Alvine Manabat, Angela Strong, Elijah Martin, Mariclair Tan, and Andrew Giminaro.
Photo by Stephanie Richer

“We are ready to make this house a home,” she said, one that she will share with her son, Javon, who just started kindergarten. “I appreciate everyone out here helping us out.”

The Frassati builders included Cozette Sanders, Angela Strong, Mariclair Tan, Alvin Manabat, Andrew Giminaro, Elijah Martin, and Caleb Scroback. They installed cabinetry, baseboards, and molding under the guidance of skilled builders with Habitat for Humanity.

“Well, you know, Jesus said, ‘Faith without works is dead,’” said Dr. Martin, leader of the Frassati Fellowship. “So today, we are doing good works for other people, and so we are enriching our faith by spreading the love of Christ.”

He noted that although she could not be present, Jess Mearns was the member who arranged for the Frassati Fellowship to partner with Habitat for Humanity on the project.

The project also gave Frassati members an opportunity to develop their skills.

“I have a lot of handy-man skills, being an engineer,” said Andrew Giminaro. “It’s a good fit to be here.”

But more important was the fact that it was an opportunity to provide service to others.

“I think it’s important for us to give back to the community,” Mr. Giminaro said. “That’s why I’m here today.”

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