This isn’t surprising, but it’s disappointing nonetheless
Dear Friends
It is with great sadness that we announce the suspension of the 2020 St Mary of Carmen Society Festival. We have decided to cancel this year’s Festa that was scheduled for July 15th to 19th 2020. We are extremely disappointed and understand the loss of such a cherished tradition that we know will bring sadness to many. The Society has been monitoring advice from public health officials, government agencies and other similar organizations and concluded it would be extremely difficult to safely hold this event at this time. We will continue to monitor the situation over the summer and hope to have some celebrations when they can be safely enjoyed by all.
The pandemic has provided us a glimpse of life in isolation, for 84 years the festival has brought us together to celebrate our shared traditions and heritage. We are a community that looks forward to celebrating every July with each other. As most of us in the society who grew up in “The Lake” have attended every year since we were kids, and have followed in the footsteps of our parents , grandparents and legends of Nonantum, we are simply devastated. This pandemic has certainly pointed out how important a sense of community is, and we hope that we can celebrate together in the future.
We are also a public charity and the festival is our largest fundraiser, many in the community will still need our support as this pandemic continues to inflict damage. With that in mind we will be soliciting for a special edition Ad book including dedication pages. We will also be putting up our pole banners and painting the lines on Adams Street. We will keep you posted regarding church services for our Tridium and Annual mass at Our Lady’s Help of Christian Church. If they cannot be held in person, we are hoping we can have a virtual service. Please follow our website stmaryofcarmen.org, and our social media, facebook.com/stmaryofcarmen, Twitter @stmaryofcarmen, Instagram @stmaryofcarmennewton, and join our e-mail list at stmaryofcarmen.org/subscribe.
The members of the St Mary of Carmen Society wish all good health during these uncertain times. We shall keep all who have been affected by this health crisis in our prayers. We are looking forward to joining with you next year, July 14th – July 18th, 2021 to celebrate the 2021 St Mary of Carmen Society Festival. We have already begun the planning!! We look forward to an amazing celebration together!
Please continue to follow the health guidelines provided to you, we hope you and your families be safe and healthy. And May the loving arms of Our Lady of Mount Carmel provide you safe comfort. God Bless!!
Sincerely,
Charles Proia
Festival Chairman
[email protected]
