PrimeTimers St. Patty's Day Mass/Luncheon Wednesday, March 13th

Smiling PrimeTimers and guests waiting for the expected exciting Irish lunch to come.

We in Minnesota may have had our first real snowstorm of the winter on Tuesday the 12th, but when the sun rose the next day when the PARTY was planned, very few changed their agendas. Wednesday, March 13th was the annual Prime Timer’s St. Patrick Day mass and luncheon at St. Joan of Arc and it was not something to be missed, no matter WHAT the weather.

The mass, celebrated by our pastor, George Wertin, began promptly at noon in the church. The sun shining through the stained glass windows cast colorful reflections on the beautiful faces surrounding the altar. The sound of Anna Vagle’s recorder and Fred Vagle’s guitar greeted everyone joyfully as they entered. As friend after friend greeted one another in happy tones. “Happy St. Patty’s Day” or some similar greeting was heard instead of the usual “Hello”. The color green was in evidence as well.

The two organizers Julie Madden and Harriet Horner standing back and admiring the beautiful table settings and Shamrock plants as centerpieces. Good job you two(and your friend)!

George’s greeting and later his homily spoke about St. Patrick but he was clear about the difference between fact and fiction. Yes, St. Patrick did bring Christianity to his adopted and beloved land, but did he rid the land of snakes? Not likely. He went on to explain how that myth might have come about. Some lovely Celtic music was sung and all were invited to a wonderfully prepared Irish luncheon in Hospitality Hall as the Eucharist celebration ended.

In the meantime, an active crew was downstairs in that same Hospitality Hall busily preparing for the people about to arrive. The tables were beautifully decorated with bright yellow tablecloths and enhanced by green napkins and silverware. In the center of each table was a Shamrock plant in bloom and tiny sparkles of shamrocks, leprechauns and all things Irish splashed about. The serving table was readied with corn beef and cabbage, Irish Mulligan stew, green tinted soda bread and what else … a green and white gelatin salad. Another table offered various beverage choices. There was green Irish beer, red wine, coffee and water served by several smiling volunteers. The huge chocolate cake served later had white icing with a shamrock on each piece. Seconds were offered and accepted by a contented crowd.

All scepticism left once everyone tasted the green soda bread. It was delicious as well as decorative.

A total of approximately 85 people were served this lovely lunch catered by Cathy Meyer’s TLC Catering service. Cathy and her husband, Dale, are long time active members of St. Joan of Arc community.

Julie Madden is the staff liaison for the Prime Timers organization and her enthusiasm is always delightful. She was excited that so many people came to enjoy the day. Harriet Horner was the organizer of this luncheon and our hats go off to both of those ladies for their fine efforts.

The added talents of Laurie Docken on the piano made the afternoon a glowing success. Laurie’s renditions of Irish songs were appreciated, but also her repertoire of Broadway hits and jazz tunes was easy on the ears and a constant delight to all those in attendance. The afternoon ended with the sounds of everyone joining in singing, “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling”. Always an appropriate ending for any St. Pat’s celebration, don’t you agree?

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JoAnn Potts is a retired music and English teacher/choir director and 30 year member of St. Joan's. She enjoys volunteering to assist Anna Vagle with music tasks one day each week; singing in the choir; writing her memoirs and poetry; keeping up with friends and family via email; visiting the North Shore and entertaining friends. JoAnn and Jim, husband and wife team of 50 years, are proud of their family of five children and nine grandchildren.

May the wind be always at your back and God willin’ we’ll see you next year!

Laurie Docken loves to play the piano for St. Joan's Prime Timers. "They are such fun to perform for." She describes herself as a Norwegian Lutheran, but loves to be with this group that knows how to celebrate St. Patrick's Day.