Supporters and faithful alike gathered at Benet Hill Monastery for an annual fundraising event Saturday designed to build community.

The event, now in its third year, was conceived by co-chair Joan Klein.

“I thought that there should be an event to help the sisters. We need to get young people to know the sisters, and this year there are a lot more children,” she said.

Klein is an administrator at Art Klein Construction Inc, which constructed the sister’s residential building in the pines. She’s been involved with the sisters for more than 30 years.

There was a friendly ball python from the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, a petting zoo, inflatables, facepaint, and spin art for the children.

Under a blue sky, the New Horizons Combo Band of Colorado Springs played relaxing music (including a instrumental rendition of “Fly Me to the Moon”), children played and shrieked. About 600 people attended the event, which lasted from 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Bliss Krucas, event chair, said, “Everything has been beyond our expectations. The sponsors have given so generously.” Sponsors included Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Rocky Mountain Health Care Services, and was attended by former Denver Nuggets player Bill Hanzlik, and former Denver Broncos player Randy Gradishar.

“We’re more than grateful for their donations,” said Krucas.

Sister Rose Ann Barmann estimated that this year’s event would raise about $30,000, which goes to the ministries and services of the Benet Hill sisters.

“It’s really pulled off by the committee and volunteers,” she said. “This is also an opportunity for the community and families to get together.”

There has been a long history of community and ministry at the Benet Hill Monastery, and Benedictine sisters have been active in Colorado since 1914.

Sandy Kinchen, director of ministries at Benet Hill Monastery, said they are there “for peoples of all religions and cultures. Everyone has a desire to find their own spiritual path.”

There are different labels, but same community. “We’re like family,” reminded Krucas.