Editor’s Note: According to organizers, based on the recommendation of the CDC and the village of Orland Park, the Saint Joseph’s Table has been canceled and will not be held on March 15. “We will see everyone next year for the table,” organizer Dan Calandriello said in an email announcing the cancellation.
Many Italians have a special love for Saint Joseph. And everyone loves to eat.
As the festivities associated with Saint Patrick wind down, an event is planned to celebrate the feast day of Saint Joseph featuring Italian food.
Organizers said the annual Saint Joseph’s Table event is a chance to enjoy a sense of community, celebrate one of the most beloved saints among Italian-Americans while enjoying a delicious, free catered meal.
It’s also a chance to help neighbors who are less fortunate.
The 6th annual Orland Community Saint Joseph’s Table is from 1 to 3 p.m. March 15 at the Orland Park Civic Center, 14750 South Ravinia Ave., Orland Park.
Organizer Dan Calandriello said the Saint Joseph Table tradition dates back to the Middle Ages when there was a severe drought in Sicily. The people prayed to their patron, Saint Joseph, asking for relief from the famine. When the rains returned the people used their crops to give thanks and share their good fortune.
“In the tradition of Saint Joseph’s Table, we will bring neighbors together, fostering a small town feel for Orland Park,” said Calandriello, an Orland Park trustee. “It has always been a wonderful event. It is my hope that families come together and cherish the time they spend not only with their own family members but also with their neighbors.”
Adored by Italian-Americans, Saint Joseph is the patron saint of workers and the protector of the family. He is honored with a feast day on March 19.
Joey’s Pizzeria on Wolf Road is catering the meal, which will include pasta, salad, bread and desserts served with pop, water and coffee. Tickets are not required to attend. All one needs to do is show up with non-perishable food items.
Calandriello said he was inspired to get neighbors together to talk and have a good time at a time when social media is contributing to less human connection. Plus, recognizing how Orland Park has grown, he wanted to do something towards sustaining a small town feel.
“The Sons of Italy loved the idea and with their help it’s been growing every year,” he said. “I am very happy to see more families come with their children and grandchildren. It’s also very special to see three generations of families coming and talking to each other — the grandparents telling their kids about their traditions. This year we are very excited because we are expanding on the traditional decorations so it will be just like the old days.”
In the tradition of the Saint Joseph’s Table, attendees are asked to bring non-perishable food items. The items will be donated to the Orland Township Food Pantry.
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“Sadly, just like the citizens of Sicily during the famine, many people are in need in our community and the donation to the Orland Township Food Pantry will help those neighbors,” Calandriello said.
While the non-perishable food items collected during this event can help toward keeping the pantry’s shelves stocked, there’s always a need for canned vegetables, soups, fruits, tuna, macaroni and cheese, spaghetti sauce, peanut butter, jelly/jams and toilet paper, officials said. The pantry serves more than 300 families every month.
C.R. Walker is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.