BUFFALO, N.Y. — More than 750 friends, parishioners and their guests participated in the third annual Weekend-Under-The-Tent fundraiser at St. Clare Parish here last month. According to pastor Michael Putich, OFM, early indications show a 9.4 percent increase in money raised over last year. “This is overwhelming given our local and national economies,” he said.
Gentle weather, good music, and attractive theme baskets drew a large crowd to the Aug. 6 to 8 festival, Michael said, and parishioners donated Lottery tickets for one door prize. “The possible winnings of $4.5 million made only $31 for the winner,” said Michael. “But as the Lottery advertisements say — hey, you never know.”
Sunday’s chicken dinner and visit from Yo-Yo the clown were also good draws, according to Michael.
Two other Holy Name Province communities also held festivals in August.
St. Francis of Assisi on Long Beach Island, N.J., where Stephen Kluge, OFM, is pastor, held its annual Festival of the Sea from Aug 10 through Aug. 15. The Franciscan Community Center of Holy Name Church on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, where Daniel Kenna, OFM, is pastor, held its annual bazaar on Aug. 22. Staff members from both parishes said attendance was good and that fundraising reports will be updated soon.
The photo above shows Francis Pompei, OFM, guardian of St. Stephen Friary in Buffalo, with Michael at the fundraiser.