Ice Cream Social

The St. Julia “Back to School” ice cream social was held after the 10 a.m. Mass service on Sunday, August 26. This was the fourth year that the church has held an ice cream social as a treat before the children begin a new school year.

It was a hot day outside but the cold ice cream proved to be a most welcome treat in the social hall area. Parishioners enjoyed sundaes made with either vanilla, chocolate, or neapolitan ice cream. There were plenty of toppings to dress up the sundaes and cones were also available for those who preferred to eat their ice cream container. Many of the children enjoyed the “self-serve” toppings and piled on the nuts, whipped cream, cherries, and chocolate, caramel, butterscotch, and peanut butter flavored toppings. Also, Jim Schwankl made some delicious sorbet which was enjoyed by many of the attendees. A variety of soft drinks was also offered. As the last of the ice cream was scooped up, many sticky, satisfied smiles ventured out with the lingering memories of a hot summer on their minds, and the curiosity of a new schoolroom of classmates to see the next day.

St. Julia Festival

The first annual St. Julia Festival was held May 20, 2007.

The Transitus Service
Commemorating the Death of St. Francis of Assisi

From the earliest days of the Franciscan Order, the followers of St. Francis have gathered on the anniversary of his death to celebrate his transitus, that is, St.Francis' passage from earthly life into everlasting life.  Here in this place, we too, gather to celebrate the light which Francis was to his world.  But, this celebration is not only a memorial, a remembering of one who has gone before us.  It is also a celebration of the Spirit of Francis in our midst today, in each of us.  This is a time when we, inspired by Francis, consider how we can be light for our world.

 

Blessing of Animals

The Blessing of Animals remembers St. Francis's deep love of all creation. Franciscan Friars bless each animal with a prayer and a sprinkling of holy water.

“Blessed are you, Lord God, maker of all living creatures. You called forth fish in the sea, birds in the air and animals on the land. You inspired St. Francis to call all of them his brothers and sisters. We ask you to bless this pet. By the power of your love, enable it to live according to your plan. May we always praise you for all your beauty in creation. Blessed are you, Lord our God, in all your creatures! Amen.”

 

St. Francis Feast / Mass

The Feast of St. Francis is celebrated on October 3.