Our St. Joseph Altar is held every other year in March, on or near St. Joseph’s Day.
It all started in Sicily: Agriculture was important to the island and there had been no rain to nourish the crops. The dried out wheat stalks cracked beneath the feet of the poor farmers as they walked through their barren fields. Only a sea of dust and withered vines remained from what had once been row upon row of brightly colored fruits and vegetables. The only thing that thrived was the Fava bean which is why it is now commonly called “the lucky bean.” The situation was critical and so the people prayed.
They pleaded with St. Joseph, their patron, for relief from the terrible famine that gripped the island. Finally, the skies opened, sending down the life-giving water. The people rejoiced. Later, to show their gratitude, they prepared a table with a special assortment of foods they had harvested. After paying honor to St. Joseph, they distributed the food to the less fortunate.
There are many volunteer opportunities for the Altar including making dessert and set-up or clean-up after the Lenten meal that is served that day.
Please contact the Parish office at 654-5778 for more information or to get involved.