Remember last year’s unique outdoor Mass and BBQ event? Theresa-Rose Woodward does – she was one of the 200 parishioners and visitors who experienced it.
As a longtime cantor in the diocese, Theresa-Rose has sung at countless Masses, but this was her first time attending one outdoors. At first, she wondered whether the ambient noise and outdoor activity might be distracting. But she felt joyfully at ease when she arrived at Library Point, surrounded by trees, blooming flowers, and a lush green lawn. She reflected, “It was incredible to witness Fr. Jon raising the Eucharist. A powerful reminder that, despite any distractions, Christ can always remain our central focus.”
Theresa-Rose continued, “The outdoor setting added a new and exciting dimension to Mass. Gathering as a family in a public space created a visible witness of our faith—an experience I won’t forget. I loved the camaraderie. As a community of believers, we helped each other find seats, made space in the Communion line, and shared conversations with those we may not usually see in the pews closest to us. It was uplifting and joyful. There were no pretenses—just the CTK community coming together!”
The CTK staff is now hard at work planning this year’s event, which is happening on Sunday, June 1. Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM, followed by a BBQ at noon catered by Local Links Market Café. All you need to bring is a lawn chair, a beach blanket, and sunscreen!
While there’s no fee to attend, we kindly ask you to register in advance for catering purposes. CTK ministries and the Knights of Columbus Marian Council #3784 will be lending a hand. For service opportunities related to this event, please contact Cheryl Judge.
Use the QR code to register for the BBQ, we hope to see you there!
