FOREST CITY — Immaculate Conception Parish and the Knights of Columbus of Forest City held their sixth annual Cross-A-Thon and Eucharistic Procession Aug. 11.
Some participants shouldered life-sized crosses, while others carried smaller crosses in the Eucharistic Procession as the group walked one mile from the church down Main Street in Forest City to the Grace of God Rescue Mission.
The procession was led by Father Herbert Burke, pastor, accompanied by Deacons Andy Cilone, Sigfrido Della Valle and David Faunce.
Then the procession returned to the church and participants remained for Benediction. Father Burke spoke on bearing our crosses in a public witness to our faith while following Christ in the Eucharist.
Afterwards, everyone enjoyed a grilled hot lunch and camaraderie in the parish hall.
About 110 people took part in the procession, and money was raised for the Knight of Columbus’ Warriors to Lourdes pilgrimage. The event raised enough money to send at least one pilgrim to Lourdes next spring.
The Cross-A-Thon began as a fundraising event six years ago by the youth of the parish, and has since grown into a multifaceted spiritual event enjoyed by all ages. It’s now supported and sponsored by the Knights of Columbus.
— Photos by Giuliana Polinari Riley, correspondent
