A water balloon toss, face paint, potato sack race, plant sale, fire truck tour, pie-eating contest, and sizzling burgers and hot dogs were a few of the many attractions at the annual Labor Day picnic at St. Mary of Sorrows Church in Fairfax Sept. 1.
Parishioners and clergy alike enjoyed the outdoor fun. First-time picnic attendee Father Edwin Seh, parochial vicar, said that the day allows parishioners to “appreciate what the Lord gives us as strengths, which we give back to the community as labor.”
“We have been parishioners of St. Mary of Sorrows since we moved here about two years ago, and we absolutely love this parish so much,” said Katie Levitas, mother of four. Her children agreed. “I played Gaga Ball and painted my face,” announced Bridget, 6, pointing to a pink and white rabbit on her cheek.
According to the parish, the event is one of the oldest social functions in Fairfax, beginning in 1876. After Labor Day was made a federal holiday in 1894, the picnics were moved to Labor Day.
