“It’s such a blessing for us to gather each year for The FEST,” he said, adding, “It’s an inspiring day of faith, family and fun. This year, we are coming together from noon to 10 p.m. on Aug. 15 at ForeFront Field in Avon (home of the Lake Erie Crushers baseball team), which provides a number of ‘blessings.’ We start with some key infrastructure — parking, electricity, lighting, bathrooms and more. It also allows us to have clear points of entry to the event and to take advantage of all the good things they do to keep events, like The FEST, safe and comfortable for all.”

“Blessed!” is the theme for this year’s FEST.

Since the venue has limited seating capacity, Father Bob said tickets are necessary to ensure that  everyone with a ticket has a place at The FEST. Tickets are $10 a person, which he said is only a fraction of the cost to produce the event. “To make sure everyone is welcome, scholarships for tickets are also available,” he added.

For more than 25 years, Father Bob said The FEST has been a highlight of the summer for thousands across the region.

“It’s important that we find new ways to bring us together to celebrate our faith and strengthen the bonds of community,” he explained. “While this year’s FEST is at a new location, it will include the same great volunteers and activities that make it such a special event for our diocese.”

Bishop Edward Malesic will be the main celebrant at the closing Mass, set for 8 p.m.

National Catholic songwriter and musician Steve Angrisano will lead The FEST band and choir at the liturgy. Father Bob said special arrangements are available so that those who are not coming for the entire day can be there for Mass. Visit The FEST website, theFEST.us/Mass, for details.

In addition to Steve Angrisano, this year’s entertainment will include Catholic musician Matt Maher, who recently released a new album, and Cain, who also released a new album.

“Special thanks to Baron’s Bus, Kurtz Brothers and Petitti’s for providing lead sponsorship,” Father Bob added.

He said another “blessing” for this year’s FEST is that parking is closer and easier to find. In addition, the entire venue is handicap accessible.