St. Willy Jam, our annual parish picnic is only one week away! The name of our picnic comes from the fact that more than one musical group entertains that day. The origins of the picnic, around 2006, are rooted in the musical talents of young people who were looking for a chance to play to a crowd. We are still open to young musicians who want a chance to show their talents. In recent years we have not found them. Please inform us if you know of some young people looking for a chance.

Of course, the picnic would be missing something if not for the outdoor Mass, the good food, raffle, bake sale, etc. We are doing our best to provide ways to participate, near and far.

We will do our best to livestream the 10:45 Mass. We have not livestreamed from outside, but we are going to try. Lighting and sound may not be as good as in the church.

At the picnic this year we will have drive-thru food order and pick-up available. Booyah, burgers, tacos, brats, hot dogs, etc. will be available. Drive into the parking area at the East side of the law office from Jefferson Street and follow signs and instructions.

Ultimately, we are hoping to build community through the interactions of parishioners as they prepare for, enjoy, and clean up after the picnic. Fostering community relations, forming new friendships, and collaborating with someone whom we did not know previously, are all aspects of building the Kingdom of God on earth. Building God’s kingdom is our reason for being. We do not have parishes, picnics, Sacraments, ministries, retreats, etc. for their own sake. We participate in these moments of prayer and other activities in order to live the Gospel, and to know the Gospel better. Ideally, the good experiences among our sisters and brothers from our faith community will help us in our relationships with strangers and friends alike in our daily lives.

I am not discounting the fund-raising aspect of our parish picnic. The money raised helps us to do “kingdom-building” work throughout the year. The clean, safe, and family-friendly environment helps us to create a prayerful and entertaining place for people to relax. That same money might otherwise be spent at the mall, the casino, the local tavern, or even Bay Beach. None of those places is bad in itself. We just want the church to be able to compete for attention in the lives of God’s People!!

Peace, Fr. Andy