In the heart of Wilkes-Barre, the anticipation of an age-old tradition fills the air as St. Nicholas-St. Mary School’s basement buzzes with activity. The annual three-day bazaar, a cherished event that celebrates cultural heritage and community spirit, is set to commence at St. Nicholas Church.
Volunteers, including Patricia Fagula, immersed themselves in preparations, slicing onions amidst laughter and tears brought on by the pungent aroma. “Yeah, I’m crying,” Fagula remarked with a chuckle, illustrating the deep commitment shared by those involved.
As food tents were being set up outside, the basement brimmed with donated goods for the bazaar’s flea market, with furniture, including a kitchen sink, displayed upstairs. Such bazaars are a beloved tradition, deeply rooted in the region’s ethnic and religious identity.
Celebrating Heritage Through Cuisine
Bob Steininger, co-chairperson of the event, stood in the school kitchen as steaming vats of haluski noodles jiggled nearby. “I basically run all the food for the bazaar,” Steininger explained, emphasizing the meticulous planning involved.
The bazaar promises a culinary journey featuring Eastern European staples like pierogies and halupki, alongside Latino and Vietnamese dishes, reflecting the parish’s diverse community. The menu also includes new additions, such as kielbasi and German desserts.
Building Community and Supporting Parish Needs
Beyond the food, the bazaar offers music, games, and flea markets. Eric Deabill of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Scranton highlighted the significance of these festivals: “They strengthen a sense of community and invite neighbors to partake, showcasing the welcoming spirit of the parish.”
Financially, the bazaar is crucial, contributing significantly to the parish’s annual income. Steininger noted, “It helps us raise 29% of our whole annual net income,” underscoring its role in sustaining parish activities and maintenance needs.
Volunteers: The Heart of the Bazaar
The preparations involve a dedicated team of volunteers. Nancy Verespy Forbes, in charge of the flea market, pointed out, “We have so much, as you can see,” as she gestured to tables laden with goods. The hard work of pricing and organizing these items is integral to the bazaar’s success.
Youth group members, like 14-year-old Alysha Wipp Rosario, play an active role, finding joy in helping and connecting with others. Steininger emphasized the importance of engaging young volunteers, ensuring they enjoy the experience and make new friends.
Upcoming Church Bazaars in the Diocese
Church bazaars are a significant draw throughout the Diocese of Scranton. Eric Deabill mentioned the popularity of the online festival listing, which provides a convenient resource for families seeking festival information.
A complete schedule of upcoming events is available on the Diocese of Scranton’s website. View the full listing here.
JULY
● 16-18: St. Nicholas-St. Mary Parish, Wilkes-Barre
● 16-18: Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Pittston
● 17-18: St. Eulalia’s Parish, Roaring Brook Twp.
● 17-19: Exaltation of the Holy Cross Parish, Hanover Twp.
● 23-25: Moscow Country Street Fair
● 24-25: Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Hunlock Creek
● 24-26: Christ the King Parish, Eynon
● 30: Church of St. Luke, Stroudsburg
● 30-Aug. 1: St. Al’s, Wilkes-Barre/Hanover Twp.
AUGUST
● 1-2: Our Lady of Victory Church, Tannersville
● 2: St. Ann’s Basilica Parish, Scranton
● 6-8: Communion of Saints Parish, Pittston
● 7-9: St. Matthew’s, East Stroudsburg
● 7-9: St. John’s, Larksville
● 7-9: St. Rocco’s, Dunmore
● 7-9: St. Jude, Mountain Top
● 7-9: St. Joseph Melkite Greek-Catholic Church, West Scranton
● 7-9: Our Lady of Peace Parish, Hazleton
● 15-16: Ss. Peter and Paul Parish, Plains Twp.
SEPTEMBER
● 2-7: St. Mary of the Lake, Lake Winola
● 27: Gate of Heaven Birthday Tea, Dallas
OCTOBER
● 24: Fall Festival, St. Patrick, Nicholson
