October – with its brisk air and falling leaves – seems but a faint memory as Montanans move into the summer season. But, summer marks the opening of the Son Light raffle. And what better way to transition from summer to fall than by winning one of two cash prizes?

The Son Light Celebrating Youth Ministry event will be held on Oct. 2 in Helena, with the evening culminating in the raffle drawing. Close to $12,000 in cash prizes will be awarded through the raffle. Tickets are available in parishes throughout the diocese, Legendary Lodge, Catholic Social Services of Montana and at the chancery in Helena.

Raffle proceeds benefit catholic youth and young adult ministry in the Diocese of Helena and Legendary Lodge. First place cash prize is $4,881 and second place is $1,884. A $2,500 reward will be offered to the parish selling the first prize-winning ticket and a $2,500 reward will be offered to the parish selling the most tickets.

Individual ticket prices have remained the same at $25. A discount is being offered to anyone purchasing $100 worth of tickets with a fifth chance included at no charge.

Event organizers said the event has raised almost $300,000 in the past three years. A significant portion of the funds have been endowed with The Foundation for the Diocese of Helena.

The remaining proceeds provide for current needs of the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry and Legendary Lodge. A portion of last year’s proceeds allowed the Diocese to purchase a new pontoon boat for Legendary Lodge. The Son Light steering committee hopes to raise enough money this year to purchase a second boat in 2010.

The annual celebration begins with prayer at the Cathedral of St. Helena, highlighting individuals involved in youth ministry across the diocese. Everyone is welcome. Dinner, auction and raffle drawing follow at the Helena Civic Center. Event tickets are $75/person or $525/table for eight.


Published in The Montana Catholic Online, Volume 25, No. 7, July 17, 2009.