“Abundant Blessings, Napa California”

On Sunday, August 12, Fr. Tomaž Mavrič, C.M., Fr. Miles Heinen, C.M., and Fr. Gregory Semeniuk, C.M. participated in a Mass to bless the harvest and vineyard workers of the Napa Valley.  The event was called, “Abundant Blessings.”  The valley is world famous for its wine production.  The sponsors of the event were the Naeymi-Rad and Kepic Families.  They are faithful benefactors of the Congregation of the Mission, particularly, our international missions.  The parish of St. John the Baptist co-sponsored the event.  Fr. Ismael Mora, pastor of St. John the Baptist Parish, offered the church building and grounds for the occasion.  The event focused on the blessing of the vineyard workers prior to the harvest.

The blessing of the workers took place after the closing prayer of the noon Eucharist.  All the workers, men and women, young and old, were invited to come around the circular sanctuary.  Over two hundred presented themselves for the blessings.  The workers were most grateful for the attention and acknowledgement.  Veronica, a parishioner, commented, “Vineyard workers do backbreaking work.  The harvest time is especially difficult because it requires long hours of hard work.”  She added, “I would like to see this event take place next year.  It is so important for the Church to show concern for the workers and to acknowledge their contribution.”  Pedro and Amelia Ceja, vineyard owners, and former vineyard workers stated, “Without the workers, we would not have any way to harvest the grapes.  The workers are essential. We want them to feel proud because their hard work contributes to Napa’s wine production.”

Upon exiting the church, the people received an image of the Mary Immaculate and a small holy water bottle.  These gifts of devotion were bought and prepared by Theresa Kepic, M.D. and Fr. Mark Pranaitis, C.M.  The priests stood at the exit of the church, distributing the articles to each family in attendance.

The mood shifted to festivity as the band began to entertain the faithful and guests.  All in attendance enjoyed delicious paella and tacos served from three lunch trucks.  Fr. Ismael Mora spent time in our company as did the Napa Chief of Police, Robert Plumber and his wife.  Fr. Mora shared with us about the challenge of providing scholarships for the Catholic school to the many deserving children whose parents cannot cover the rising tuition costs.  Fr. Mavrič mingled with the crowd and greeted the workers in their native Spanish tongue.  People were impressed that he also helps to break down the tables after the fiesta.  In short, the Superior General’s presence message and blessing brought important support to the vineyard workers.

Please keep them in your prayers as they work to provide for their families as the harvest begins.

Fr. Gregory Semeniuk, CM
VSO