The Joy of the White Elephant Sale at Our Lady of the Lake
Churches have always understood something simple and beautiful: community thrives when people share what they have. That’s why Our Lady of the Lake’s annual White Elephant Sale is more than a fundraiser—it’s a tradition rooted in generosity, stewardship, and the belief that even the smallest gift can make a meaningful difference.
Every summer, a trailer appears in the church parking lot, ready to receive gently used items from parishioners. What looks like a simple donation drop-off is actually the beginning of a remarkable chain of good. The proceeds from the sale go directly to our sister parish in Haiti, where the needs are great and the gratitude is even greater. Our Haiti Committee works tirelessly year-round to ensure that the school at the sister parish continues to operate. The funds raised pay teachers' salaries, provide lunches for the children, and cover repairs and essential upkeep for their church. Their pastor is known for being frugal, thoughtful, and collaborative, using every dollar with care and in consultation with our committee. It is a charity I truly love—one that allows us to see the impact of our efforts in real, tangible ways.
The sale itself is a service to our own community as well. Many shoppers are not parishioners but neighbors who appreciate the chance to purchase needed items at a great price. It’s a place where a donated lamp becomes someone’s perfect reading light, or where a set of dishes finds a new home with a family who couldn’t otherwise afford them.
My role at the sale is simple but surprisingly satisfying. I work to keep the rows and rows of items organized. There is always more inventory than table space, so many treasures begin the day tucked away in boxes. As items sell and counter space opens up, I bring out new pieces, and I’ve learned that showcasing an item almost guarantees a purchase. This year, four wooden bunny lawn decorations were hidden under the counter. Once I placed them in front of the Easter section, a shopper scooped them up within minutes. I worked tirelessly on Friday and Saturday night, but some of the volunteers are there every night.
The sale continues for five days, Tuesday through Saturday. The final night is always “donation night,” when everything remaining is free, with a gentle request for a contribution. The grammar school gym fills with people, and the atmosphere is joyful and bustling. I always wait until late on Saturday to choose a few things for myself and make my donation. This year I found a few Nelson DeMille novels and—amazingly—a serving plate that matches one I received as a gift from a college friend. I never imagined I’d find its twin at the White Elephant Sale, but there it was, waiting for me.
There is a real sense of satisfaction in donating your time, your gently used items, and your financial support to a cause that matters—while also discovering a few treasures you can use and enjoy. That’s why this is my favorite charity: I can participate at so many levels, and every level feels meaningful.
Perhaps more churches should consider holding a White Elephant Sale. It strengthens the parish, serves the community, and supports those in need far beyond our own borders. At Our Lady of the Lake, it has become a tradition of generosity, joy, and connection—and I’m grateful to be part of it every year.
Book Update
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Deceptive Images
The hardcover edition became available from Ingram Spark on July 6th. I am looking for new readers! If you have a friend who is a librarian, works in a bookstore, or participates in a book club, please let them know. I will be happy to correspond with them. Showcasing an item almost guarantees a purchase!
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A Favorite Plate
A wedding gift from 36 years ago, I found a twin at the sale!
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The term white elephant comes from ancient Siam (modern Thailand), where rare pale elephants were considered sacred. Because they couldn’t be put to work and required expensive care, they became symbols of beautiful but burdensome possessions. Over time, the phrase came to mean useful to someone, but not to the owner—which is exactly the spirit of a White Elephant Sale.
On Friday night I checked my phone and realized I clocked 18,000 steps during the day, walking with my neighbor, food shopping, and working at the White Elephant sale. Yesterday I was a bit less energetic but walked 13,000 steps; over 5 miles! I realize I am not as young as I used to be, so after Sunday Mass I plan to relax by the pool and start reading one of my new novels. I hope you have a great week. We are in the midst of an exciting summer season, so enjoy! Relax and read! Until next week ... Joanne
