Our Lady of Lourdes Parish hosts 18th annual International Food and Culture Festival

Those who attended the 18thannual International Food and Culture Festival at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Cleveland were able to sample the culture of several countries during the event.

Father Joseph Callahan, Our Lady of Lourdes pastor, said the parish is a sister collaboration of parishes and faith communities of other denominations in Cleveland’s Slavic Village neighborhood. The parish community includes descendants from many nationalities, including various European countries as well as those of African, Asian, Caribbean and Latin American heritage.

Father Callahan said parishioners prepared and donated typical dishes from their countries or ethnic identities which were shared with attendees. Foods from 11 countries were offered at this year’s festival, which took place on Oct. 17.

In addition, parishioners presented folkloric dances and songs from Puerto Rico, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico and Peru.

“Noteworthy was the participation of children and youth who learned dances and donned native dress,” Father Callahan said. “Through their participation, they learned about and celebrated their cultural heritage and language.”

The festival, a major fundraiser for the parish, concluded with a money raffle. The event raised more than $10,000, Father Callahan said.

“But by far, the biggest profit was the opportunity to celebrate and be proud of our children, youth and rich cultures,” he added.