April 26, 2023

St. James Minor Church in, Carthage is pleased to announce its 20th Annual Rosary Crusade, scheduled for May 12-13.

Twenty-one years ago, Bob Renaud, a local teacher and artist, initiated the Rosary Rally.

It has been held every year except in 2020, at the height of the COVID shut-down. This has always been a parish event.

When Renaud moved, parishioners continued to support the event with their time, talent and treasures.

Renaud generously created a painting each year for the Crusade. Participants who prayed for three or more hours were gifted a copy of the painting. When Renaud moved, Nicole Mangan graciously volunteered to continue to provide the same opportunity for those who gather to pray.

This year’s Rosary Rally begins at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, May 12. The event opens with Mass celebrated by Father Todd Thibault.

The rosary will be prayed continuously in front of the Blessed Sacrament until 1 a.m. on Saturday, May 13.

The event has always been scheduled as close to the feast day of Fatima as possible. This year, the concluding hour will take place on the anniversary of Our Lady of Fatima.

“We are blessed to be accompanied by parishioners from all over the diocese,” said Kathi Buskey, one of the event organizers. “Local and neighboring families and groups take turns leading the rosary. Three rosaries are prayed each hour.”

Dave Heywood leads hymns throughout the evening with vocals and violin. Refreshments are provided. The parish community and event organizers welcome all those who are able to join in prayer both physically and in spirit.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to support peace in our families and peace in our world,” Buskey said. “We encourage you to join us for 15 minutes or the entire night.”

Any questions can be directed to Buskey at 315-783-2230.