The Sacred Heart tradition continues
They're Back!! Those delicious homemade dumplings and desserts that the parishioners of Sacred Heart Parish are noted for. Parishioners of all ages help with this community event held every October at Sacred Heart Parish Center, Haffner Hall. The dinner will actually begin at 5:00 am for workers who measure, beat, ball'em, roll'em, cut'em, cook'em.
"It's an exact process; workers have to follow the recipe and directions exactly are you're not going to get flaky dumplings," says Suzanne Majewski, who has the measuring cups and spoons, bowls and forks, and all the ingredients ready as workers arrive.
Men and women know where to go when they get here with aprons and rolling pins. "Most like to use their own rolling pins; some are Vintage', used years ago by moms performing the same jobs and using the same recipe." Says Majewski.
Somehow it all comes together by 11 a.m. when the doors open by official greeter Liz Wynn, welcoming hungry arrivals from all over southern Illinois. Those who purchased advance-tickets may go ahead to be seated. Tickets may be purchased from Sacred Heart parishioners or at the church rectory or at the door on Oct. 18. Tickets are adults: $9, children 6-10: $5, under 5: free.
Adult carry out dinners are available at the front door of Haffner Hall, but there are no call in orders or container sales.
According to Linda Sherman, Event Coordinator, there are 24 tables set up in the gym, seating 8 at a table; 48 servers of all ages are ready to refill bowls with hot dumplings and cold slaw and drinks too. "The success of the dinner comes from weeks of planning and organizing with several committees." Says Sherman. "There's no T in Team'; we're a team, a parish family asking you to come to our Sunday family dinner."
Some guests come for the desserts of homemade cakes and pies. "We have people ask for a special pie baked by a certain person." Says dessert chairperson Kelly Paxton. "A lady asked for Mary Iffert's cherry pie or rhubarb and raisin baked
by Liz Wynn. It's amazing how they remember!" Of course, guest can top off each dessert with a scoop of Cedar Crest Ice Cream, donated by parishioner Bob Bytnar and Ye Ole Fudge and Ice Cream Shoppe.
"I would say, we have at least 80 people who make this fall event a success." says early morning worker Gina Cushman, "from searching for the best price on chicken thighs to putting away the last washed plate; it' a family affair. Barb and Roger Craft even take meals and dessert to our nursing home and homebound parishioners who cannot attend. We don't want anyone to feel left out."
"Save the Date" for this coming Sunday, Oct. 18 from 11-2 at Haffner Hall where the Sacred Heart tradition continues and you won't want to miss it.