Descent of the Holy Ghost
Women's Auxiliary
Serving the parish, honoring the faith, and building community — as women of the Church have done since the Apostolic age.
Fr. Daniel Radu & Fr. John Ionita with the Women's Auxiliary
Who We Are
The Heart of Parish Life
The Women's Auxiliary of Descent of the Holy Ghost Romanian Orthodox Church has been a pillar of parish life since the earliest days of our community. Founded by the wives and daughters of Romanian immigrants who built this parish from nothing, the Auxiliary has always embodied the spirit of sacrificial service.
Today, the Auxiliary continues that legacy — organizing parish events, supporting charitable works, beautifying the church, and nurturing the bonds of community that make Descent of the Holy Ghost a true family of faith.
All women of the parish are warmly invited to join. Meetings are held monthly, and new members are always welcome — whether you have been Orthodox your whole life or are just beginning your journey.
Get InvolvedRecent Event · May 2026
Painting After Coffee Hour
Just two weeks ago, the Women's Auxiliary gathered after Sunday coffee hour for a painting event right here at the parish. Each lady created her own butterfly and flower canvas — and the results were stunning.
Events like these bring our women together in fellowship, creativity, and joy — a reminder that parish life extends far beyond the Divine Liturgy.
"Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." — Galatians 6:2
Painting Event — Women's Auxiliary · May 2026
New Ministry · Established July 16, 2026
St Julia's Women's Book Club
Named for the Virgin Martyr Julia, commemorated on July 16th — our new monthly book club is open to all who wish to grow closer to Christ through Orthodox literature and fellowship.
When
6:30 p.m.
Third Thursday of every month
Next Meeting
August 20, 2026
427 S. Broad St, Griffith, IN
Cornelia Merchant's home
Current Book
The Way of the Pilgrim
Trans. Nina A. Toumanova
Available on Amazon
All are welcome — in person or virtually. Bring coffee, tea, or a snack. Contact Megan Vander Laan for help finding a copy of the current book.
"Pray without ceasing." — 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Fellowship & Community
Ladies Out Together
Beyond the parish walls, the Women's Auxiliary gathers for dinners, outings, and celebrations that deepen the bonds of sisterhood and friendship.
Christmas Dinner Outing
Women's Auxiliary
Summer Lunch Gathering
Women's Auxiliary
Winter Dinner Celebration
Women's Auxiliary
Areas of Service
How We Serve
The Women's Auxiliary touches nearly every aspect of parish life — from the altar to the community table, from the classroom to the food pantry.
Charitable Works
The Auxiliary organizes food drives, clothing collections, and financial support for families in need — both within the parish and in the broader Merrillville community.
Parish Events
From the annual Parish Picnic to holiday dinners and coffee hour after Divine Liturgy, the Women's Auxiliary is the heart of parish hospitality and fellowship.
Church Beautification
The Auxiliary cares for the beauty of the church — maintaining vestments, altar linens, floral arrangements, and the overall upkeep of the sacred space.
Religious Education
Members support Sunday School and youth programs, helping to pass the Orthodox faith on to the next generation through teaching, mentorship, and example.
Calendar
Upcoming Events
June 1, 2026
Pentecost Luncheon
Annual fellowship meal following the Patronal Feast Divine Liturgy.
July 12, 2026
Monthly Meeting
Regular meeting open to all women of the parish. Light refreshments served.
September 13, 2026
Fall Fundraiser
Annual bake sale and fundraiser benefiting parish charitable works.
"She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy."
Proverbs 31:20
The women of Descent of the Holy Ghost have embodied this verse for over a century — through the lean years of the Great Depression, through the growth of the parish in Gary, through the move to Merrillville, and into the present day. Their faithfulness is woven into the very fabric of this community.
Join the Women's Auxiliary
All women of the parish — and women inquiring about the faith — are welcome to attend any meeting or event. There are no dues required to participate. Simply come, and you will be welcomed.