Corpus Christi Catholics prepare for annual event

For 11 years Corpus Christi Catholic Community has held an ice cream social for the community share in tasty treats, play bingo and enjoy the company of others.

Though the name of the event has changed to the annual Fall Family Fun Fest, all the treats and prizes are still available, as is ice cream. The event is from 1-4:30 p.m. Sunday at the church, 5335 Snyder Ave.

"We're increasing the types of food available to more accurately reflect our parish," said Bob Frenchu, parishioner.

"And we're adding some music."

Proceeds from the event continue to go to the church's building fund. Corpus Christi Catholic Church " with the blessing of Bishop Randolph Calvo of the Reno Catholic Diocese " recently broke ground on their new church on Sunridge Drive.

The new church is 15,000 square feet and sits on 71⁄2 acres. The hall will seat 500. The site is also big enough for future building possibilities.

Father Jim Setelik of Corpus Christ was assigned in 1998 by then Bishop Phillip Straling, who told Setelik he wanted him to build a church. After 11 years of fundraising, planning and looking at the Sunridge Drive site, their plans came to fruition.

Corpus Christi became part of the St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Community parish in 1968 with the arrival of the Rev. Bernard Sheerin.

About $5,000 a year has been raised through the annual ice cream social.

This year, Frenchu said they are adding a different flair of foods for the public to try, as well as continuing in traditions of the event.

"We're adding Mexican and Nicaraguan foods to the table," French said. "But we'll still have American foods like hamburgers and sausages.

"And of course, ice cream."

For the younger crowd, there will be a shaved ice booth, pick-a-duck game, a fishing game, milk bottle throw, ring toss and ball roll.

"Plus a bounce house, and a cake walk hosted by the Catholic Daughters," said Karen Smeath of Corpus Christi.

"What's nice about the games, we've arranged so everybody wins something."

The bingo games will continue, also.

"Oh, yes," French said. "We're Catholics. It comes directly from Rome."

A DJ will also be on hand to provide music for the festival.

- Contact Rhonda Costa at rcosta@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1223.