LEOMINSTER — As the Lenten season begins, St. Anna Parish once again invites the community to take part in a cherished Friday night tradition that has brought people together for decades.
The annual St. Anna Society Lenten Fish Dinners return beginning Friday, Feb. 20, offering six weeks of fellowship and delicious food, in the spirit of Lent, with proceeds benefiting the ongoing needs of the parish.
Now in its 35th year, the Lenten dinners remain rooted in simplicity and tradition.
“Each Friday morning, the church hall comes alive as members of the St. Anna Society affectionately known as the ‘Fish Sticks’ — along with volunteer friends, gather to prepare the meal,” said Angela Cahill, vice president of the St. Anna Society. “The scent of marinara sauce fills the hall as potato wedges are prepped, haddock is dipped and breaded, and coleslaw is made fresh. Despite the long hours of work, laughter and camaraderie abound.”
By late afternoon, the familiar line begins to form. Longtime regulars return week after week, joined by new faces eager to take part in a tradition that has become a meaningful part of the Lenten season for many families.
Father Carlos, with his welcoming smile, greets guests as he serves the baked haddock, helping to make each dinner feel both personal and communal.
Each fish dinner ticket purchased also includes entry into a free drawing, with one lucky winner receiving a $200 Visa gift card at the conclusion of the six-week series.
The St. Anna Society Lenten Meal features baked haddock, coleslaw, potato, vegetable, macaroni and cheese or pasta with marinara sauce, bread, dessert, a beverage and coffee. Tickets are $15 for a fish dinner or $8 for a macaroni and cheese or pasta marinara dinner. Chowder is available for $7 per bowl. Wine and beer will be available for purchase during dinner for $5. Takeout is available for all menu items except alcoholic beverages, and cold and hot drinks.
Dinners are served Fridays from Feb. 20 through March 27, from 4 to 7 p.m., or until sold out, in St. Anna Church Hall, 199 Lancaster St.
“Guests are encouraged to come not only for a meal, but for the fellowship – sharing stories, reconnecting with old friends, and welcoming new ones into what has become “la nostra nuova famiglia” — our new family,” Cahill said with a smile.
For more information, you are welcome to visit www.stannaparish.org.
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