A fantastic evening of fun and fellowship at the 27th annual Azalea Gala brought 750 friends of CCSC together to celebrate their shared mission to help those in need and honor longtime CCSC supporter Dr. Tom Pace, senior pastor of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church.

“What an amazing organization is Christian Community Service Center. Such a fun evening and supporting such a great cause,” Dr. Pace said. “It was so gratifying to know how many folks care so much about the mission to serve the poor, hungry, disabled or otherwise needy while seeing them with both compassion and respect. I am glad to be one of those people!”

The over $865,000 raised by the event will expand the resources of CCSC’s social service programs, which provide emergency food, financial assistance, employment coaching, and vocational training to Houstonians in need.

“Suzie and I feel very blessed to have been able to be the Honorary Chairs of this year’s Azalea Gala honoring our special friend Dr. Tom Pace,” said Don Sinclair. “With amazing support by so many, the gala was incredibly successful which allowed it to continue being a major supporter of CCSC’s mission.”

Guests enjoyed the emcee talents of KHOU 11 News’ Shern-Min Chow and live music by Grace and Jim Roman, of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, and Marvin Gaspard, of St. Luke’s Presbyterian Church, as well as a Raffle and Big Board Auction featuring the talents of Johnny “Bravo” Holloway. CCSC Board Chair Deacon Larry Vaclavik, of St. Theresa Catholic Church, presented Dr. Pace with the Azalea Gala 2024 Honoree Award his hands-on partnership with CCSC to alleviate the effects of poverty in Houston.

“During his tenure at St. Luke’s, Tom has not only lifted up CCSC’s mission but has also elevated the work his church does to help people who live in the margins,” said CCSC President & CEO Michelle Shonbeck. “It was our privilege to honor him for his deep commitment to our work and serving the community.”