Each year, on the last Sunday of July, the Friends of the John Paul II Foundation in New York organize a summer picnic.
For the past three years, we've been visiting the 'Polana' resort in Kerhonkson in the Catskill Mountains, run by Mrs. Henryka and her husband. We've grown fond of this place—enchanted by the hosts’ warmth, the surrounding nature, and the peacefulness that's so rare in the New York City area.
The picnic tradition always begins with an outdoor Holy Mass. This year it was celebrated by Fr. Professor Wojciech Paluchowski, a lecturer at the Pontifical University in Kraków.
After Mass, the festivities began. Both board members and attendees rose to the occasion—the picnic table was a feast to behold, filled with lean meats, cheeses, fruits, cakes, assorted salads, hearty Polish bigos, and grilled sausages. The serene nature around us invited everyone to relax. After the open-air meal, swimming enthusiasts headed to the pool to cool off and burn some calories, while others took leisurely walks. Pedal boat lovers explored the nearby pond, and those who enjoy dancing joined in games and social dances. For the singers among us, a sing-along with accordion accompaniment was a highlight of the day.
The youngest participant was adorable 14-month-old Tamara, who came with her parents Monika and Paweł. She spent the entire day happily playing and enjoying the sunny weather.
As always, we held a successful raffle, with proceeds benefiting the John Paul II Foundation in Rome.
Relaxed and full of memories, we returned home in the evening. See you next year at the next picnic!
ZOFIA TWAROWSKA