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Archbishop Nelson Perez incenses the altar during Benediction under the stars. Benediction is an especially important part of AbbeyFest to many people
The ninth annual AbbeyFest returns to Daylesford Abbey in Paoli on Saturday (Sept. 16) from 12 p.m. until 7 p.m.
The faith and family festival of Christian gospel music includes speakers, performing artists, religious vendors, food, games, confession, Mass, Adoration, and Benediction.
Headlining the list of this year’s performers is Matthew West. Other performers include Riley Clemons, Array Hope of Music, Village Lights featuring Sarah Kroger, Ike Ndolo and Rickey Vazquez, and Gus deSimone.
Philadelphia Archbishop Nelson Perez will be back for his third appearance. Mark Griswold, director of Family Life at St. Norbert Parish in Paoli, and American Christian musician Hannah Schaefer, will again co-host. Griswold also returns as emcee. Griswold’s initial vision for the festival was seeing people of all ages come together to celebrate God’s goodness in an atmosphere of faith, family, and with the best that Christian music can offer.
People pray with candles in hand under the stars.
“It is awe-inspiring to see a community of faith come together in the joy of the Lord,” said Griswold. Festival attendance is expected to exceed 5,000 this year with some who attend annually and others coming for the first time.
Among those who have not missed a single year are Anna Iatesta and her daughter, Susanna, of Springfield, parishioners of St. Francis of Assisi Parish, 136 Saxer Ave., Springfield.
“It is a wonderful way for families and religious communities to come together,” said Anna.
It takes many months of preparation and promotion through parish bulletins, social media, and flyers in churches throughout the region.
“It’s grown through word of mouth,” said Susanna. “It grows, little by little.”
Participation is not limited to area Catholics. Thousands come from near and far to take in the festivities and attend Mass and Adoration right on the festival grounds. People of all faiths are also welcome to get a taste of the experience.
Archbishop Nelson Perez takes time to get to know some of the thousands of attendees at AbbeyFest.
Food trucks will be there. People are also encouraged to bring games of their own such as Frisbee or cornhole. There is also face painting for children.
Perez will serve as principal celebrant of an outdoor Mass at 4 p.m. so Catholics may fulfill their Sunday obligation. The day will conclude with a solemn candlelight Eucharistic procession, Adoration and Benediction under the stars.
“The fact that AbbeyFest hosts both Mass and Adoration in its festival day separates it from other Christian festivals around the U.S.,” said Schaefer.
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