ELGIN—St. Joseph Parish in Elgin made a big celebration of Mexican Independence Day, with a festival, Sept. 12-14. Families shared the great variety of typical Mexican food and drinks; various musical groups, games for children, raffles among a great atmosphere of joy and warmth in the parking lot of the school.

Father Jesus Dominguez, pastor of St. Joseph Parish,  headed the event and at 8 p.m. on Sunday (September 14), evoking the priest Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, leader of Mexican independence, gave the shout of independence with the traditional expression: “Viva Mexico!”

It was “an activity that took place in a familiar environment and helps the finances of the parish,” said Father Rafael Tunarosa, parochial vicar of St. Joseph.

The Festival was a great opportunity to share with other cultures the Mexican traditions and to experience a taste of Mexico in Elgin.

Father Dominguez said he saw a “positive balance of the event in the third year of celebration, and each year is getting better. I’m very thankful for all those volunteers and all those who participated to make the event possible,” he said.