Mission Statement
The tradition of St. Joseph’s Table, which dates from the Middle Ages, honors St. Joseph, the foster father of Jesus Christ and patron of the Universal Church. At Holy Family, the annual celebration, organized entirely by parishioners, supports the Giving Bank and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

About St. Joseph’s Table
In Sicily, a St. Joseph’s Table was primarily meant for feeding the poor as a form of communal or public charity, in thanksgiving for the end of a severe drought. Three of the poorest of the village, dressed as Mary, Joseph, and Jesus, reenact the Holy Family seeking lodging. The family finds shelter and food at the home of the family hosting the table. The “saints” are seated at the table and are served a substantial meal. A statue of St. Joseph with the baby Jesus is the centerpiece of the table. Breads, vegetables and sweets decorate the table. Because the celebration occurs during Lent, no meat is present. A large red fish placed on the table is a symbol of Christ, and an olive branch is hung on the door to welcome all.

At Holy Family, St. Joseph’s Table, held on the third weekend of March, begins with St. Joseph’s Mass on Saturday evening followed by the procession of “saints,” the blessing and viewing of the St. Joseph’s Table in the Parish Hall, and the sale of sausage sandwiches, desserts, and refreshments. Festivities resume on Sunday morning, with Continental Breakfast and an all-day spaghetti dinner in addition to ongoing sales of Italian delicacies, pastries, and flowers from the table.

Volunteer Ministry Opportunities
There are many ways to become involved in the St. Joseph’s Table celebration. In addition to helping the day of the event, chairs for the various committees are needed: Liturgy, pasta dinner, bar, Sunday Continental Breakfast, donations, publicity, table sales, dessert donations and sales, sausage dinner, set-up, and clean-up.

Contact
RoseMarie Bonfiglio
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