Dear Friends,
Over the last week there has been a flurry of activity at St. Mary’s. Parishioners, neighbors and friends have dropped off food, items for the silent auction and bags and boxes full of unknown treasures. Our parish hall has been transformed. The chapter room is a working café. Countless volunteers have taken hours to prepare for the big day: Food and Fancies!
Each year, the Saturday before Thanksgiving is reserved for the church bazaar known as ‘Food and Fancies.’ This gathering has roots nearly as deep as our church. In a church history published in 1963 called, Through the Years with St. Mary’, I found that the first of these events was held in 1838, 172 years ago.
In the early days, the fairs and bazaars were helpful in raising money for parish building projects including adding city water and plumbing to the church, adding a kitchen and the building of a new parish house. Now, all the proceeds of Food and Fancies are given by the Women of St. Mary’s to a vast array of outreach causes. Over the years, thousands and thousands of dollars have flowed into our community and beyond due to the Food and Fancies.
But the financial benefit to the community is not all that Food and Fancies is about. Many parishioners have talked about its value as a tradition, an opportunity to gather together with friends and welcome the community to our beloved church. I invite you to come and be part of this beloved tradition that benefits so many.
– George
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