Thousands of people are expected to descend on the Center for Pastoral Leadership on Aug. 7 when The FEST 2022 returns to its traditional “home.” Theme for this year’s celebration of faith, family and fun is – appropriately – “Homecoming.”
The FEST takes place noon to 8:15 p.m. on the spacious grounds of the CPL, 28700 Euclid Ave., Wickliffe. During 2020, the pandemic forced FEST organizers to switch to a virtual format. Last year, the event took place in the Brookside Reservation of the Cleveland Metroparks. But things will be back to normal this year at the CPL.
People attend the free, daylong event for many reasons including the abundance of Christian music, opportunities to build and strengthen their faith, visiting with family and friends, collecting information and giveaways, enjoying the food and of course, the closing Mass, which will be celebrated by Bishop Edward Malesic.
Throughout the day FEST attendees can pray the rosary, spend time in adoration, receive a blessing, a Brown Scapular and the sacrament of reconciliation.
Nationally known Christian musicians Crowder, Phil Wickham, We The Kingdom, Micah Taylor and Rhett Walker, as well as local entertainment, will perform.
“Everyone’s favorite part of The FEST takes place at the end of the day when we come together as on at the table of the Lord for Mass with Bishop Malesic,” said Father Bob Stec, event organizer and pastor of St. Ambrose Parish in Brunswick.
“We are asking everyone to join us for Mass, the crown jewel of The FEST,” he said. “It will be such a joy and blessing for thousands of us to come together to celebrate our faith and ask God to renew our spirit this year. Father Stec said this spiritual renewal is especially important this year after the struggle with the coronavirus pandemic for the past two years.
“We need to come ‘home’ so we can find the comfort, inspiration, and peace we need. We will do that best when we gather together for Mass,” he added.
For more information on The FEST, click here.