Last Saturday evening our Brazilian community members hosted an annual Brazilian Festival in the parking lot. I know those who came to the four o’clock Mass saw the festive booths. Those who ran the festival worked from early morning setting up, working from 5—10 p.m. at the booths, and long into the night afterwards to make sure that the parking lot was cleaned and ready for all of you coming to Mass the following morning. 

I was more than pleased with how smoothly everything went and I am grateful to Fr. Adriano and all those involved for their hard work. When Fr. Adriano first asked about using the parking lot he mentioned that any profit the festival made would go to our parish. On Sunday he came by the rectory and presented me with over $11,000 in profits! To say I was floored would be an understatement. As you know during the summer months our offertory income always ebbs as many people are vacationing. This profit will certainly enhance our summer collections. 

Thanks again to all our Brazilian parish members for your dedication and hard work.

On a similar note, plans for our parish picnic are well under way. Again it is scheduled for August 13 at 12 noon. Don’t forget we are counting on you to provide the salads/side dishes and desserts for the meal. Anyone who is interested in helping out – set ups, cooking, serving, clean ups – please see me or Bill Smith of the Men’s Club. We are looking forward to another great community event.