JOHNSBURG—In spite of gray skies and a threat of rain, the St. John the Baptist Parish Fest here proceeded as planned on Aug. 9.

Hundreds of parishioners and neighbors attended the annual event in the park across the street from the parish grounds.

Filled with family fun, Parish Fest has been bringing smiles and raising funds for the parish and school for more than 20 years.

Children enjoyed a petting zoo and a chance to take a shot at the dunk tank.

A line of young boys consistently hit the bullseye. They beamed each time Mary Smolenski hit the water.

She had her share of dunks, but Smolenski took it all in stride and said she was “having fun.”

A big part of any fest is the live music and food. Members of the parish Knights of Columbus grilled burgers and hot dogs and kept pace with the orders with the assistance of other cheerful volunteers.

Keith Wisniewski, co-chair of the Parish Fest along with Ed Deshida, surveyed the park and was happy to see the event come together.  

“Our committee volunteers have been meeting since February to plan the activities, music, raffles and more,” Wisniewski said. “We have 10 key people who have been working together to organize this event for the past seven years.”

More than 60 people volunteer at Parish Fest and Wisniewski said what keeps them engaged and willing to help is that “We just ask for two hour shifts of their time so they can also enjoy the day, too.”

“There are so many people who make our Parish Fest a success,” Wisniewski added. “Bob Osborne is our behind the scenes guy and he’s been involved for over 27 years.”

Parishioners and friends supported the various raffles sponsored by the parish, the welcoming committee and the school.   A table was available promoting the upcoming “Catholics Returning Home” ministry at the parish.

“A few people have stopped by to ask questions,” said Rosemary Kondritz. “We are happy to speak with anyone who is interested and always welcome them.”

Jeanne Caifano, president of the Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary 9167, her mother Carmelita Caifano, vice president, and others volunteered at the ice cream booth.

“We really appreciate the generosity of Culver’s Ice Cream in McHenry,” Jeanne said, “and also the support of food vendors and raffle prize donors.”

Both Caifanos are active in the parish and said how important St. John the Baptist Parish is to each of them.

“I’ve been a member here my whole life,” Jeanne said. “This is my family.”  

Carmelita said she has been part of the parish for more than40 years.

“It is just such a beautiful church and it means so much to me,” she said.

Phyllis Hurley has attended the Parish Fest for many years.  While waiting for her ice cream order she said, “I am so happy to attend this event at our church. It’s always fun.”

Larry Scalise, a member of the Knights of Columbus, was upbeat and pointed to new copper spires on the 100 year old church.  

“The scaffolding recently came down and now we can see how beautiful they are,” Scalise saod.  Right on cue. the sun peaked out from the clouds, hit the spires, and they gleamed over the fest.

The committee will soon evaluate the day’s activities, take a break, and start planning next year’s Parish Fest.