The summer is a time for relaxation and celebration and this summer this rings true more than ever. During the summer of 2024, a sense of angst was in the air as we went through the darkest days of the Biden presidency and anticipated-with much trepidation- the 2024 election. But now we can enjoy the simple pleasures of summer; the late dinners on the patio complimented by fresh vegetables and herbs from the garden, the bright sun, the lightening bugs, the slower pace of life. Although we have a long way to go, it is time to take a breath and join in Christian community as our Savior Christ commanded us.

So let's use this opportunity to celebrate the Feast Day of St. John the Baptist know to pagans as the Summer Solstice. This is a day that has its origins in the earliest days of the Church. It is meant to celebrate the birth of John the Baptist. This day took on special meaning during the English regime for French Canadians and became a patriotic holiday to solidify their French union. The day soon became a rallying symbol for civic pride and a focal point for the French national spirit.

Historian Robert Rumilly reported that, for the occasion, Mayor Viger merrily sang the following three verses by an anonymous author, who exalted “our French forebearers”:

“They struck down tyranny, We will strike it down as well. As the hand of fate points to the enemy. St. John, lead us to victory.”

Amen!

When: Saturday, June 21, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Where: Farmington Hunt Club
5926 Wesley Chapel Rd
Free Union, VA 22940

With a performance from the Lexington, Va based bluegrass band Boys from Virginia

Food and Beverage provided