By Anne Marie Amacher
DAVENPORT — “Mardi Gras on the Move” was the theme of a potluck for St. Anthony Parish in Davenport. More than 135 people attended the event held Feb. 10 at the Knights of Columbus Hall.
The committee chose the “On the Move” theme for two reasons: to celebrate Mardi Gras and the parish’s anticipated move into its new parish hall in late March.
The potluck wasn’t just a meal, but included commercials, skits, crowning of a king and queen, a progress report on the parish center, and door prizes. A craft table was available for children to make crowns and other projects.
Pastoral Associate Sister Judy Herold, SSND, welcomed those in attendance and led prayer before the meal. She also invited each family to take a copy of the “Little Black Book” of Lenten reflections.
Parishioners brought a variety of food to share, from chicken and pizza to salads, potato dishes and desserts.
During the evening a bell was rung to announce a commercial break. One was to promote a fundraiser featuring nine-inch cookies. Proceeds from the sale would help furnish the parish hall’s kitchen.
Cathie Lange, potluck committee chairman, said the parish was “moving along” as it prepared to move into its parish hall and she hoped that’s where the next potluck would be. Potlucks typically are held four times a year to bring parishioners together. Each gathering brings more people, she noted.
The Feb. 10 celebration featured the crowning of King and Queen Dennis and Patricia Flaherty. Dennis is the parish’s business manager who will retire later this year. He and his wife were adorned with red velvet capes, gold crowns and received a king cake to take home. Committee members sang two songs with a “moving” theme.
Father Jack Gallagher, pastor, gave the parish hall progress report. He said everything is on schedule and should be ready for a Palm Sunday dedication at 3 p.m. March 28 with Bishop Martin Amos. The only thing that may not be done is the sod work. “We still might be digging snow at that point,” Fr. Gallagher said.
Carrie Delcourt spoke about a new Lenten Bible program in the parish, and then invited potluck participants to sign up to help with the next potluck — which should be celebrated in the new parish hall.
