By Steven Froias

Community Media Manager for #LoveTheAve

The legend of St. Anthony of Padua Church on Acushnet Avenue in New Bedford involves the story of hundreds of parishioners contributing whatever they could –  nickels, dimes, dollars – to erect what is now an iconic urban New England religious landmark.

That happened over one hundred years ago in this city and #OnTheAve. But that spirit lives on here as St. Anthony’s undergoes necessary structural repairs to its steeple and important upgrades towards its facility in the 21st century. 

And, there’s no better moment to capture that spirit, and contribute to the cause, than coming to St. Anthony’s this weekend during their annual Harvest Bazaar on Saturday, Nov. 2 and Sunday, November 3. 

In addition to its regular masses, of course, the bazaar is when you’ll see the vibrancy of the community here that continues to sustain St. Anthony’s into a new century. It’s an opportunity to see faith at work with family and friends – just as it was in 1895 when the parish was founded and in 1912 when the St. Anthony’s we cherish today was dedicated. 

The annual Harvest Bazaar features fun and games for the kids, crafts and a yard sale for adults, and full course home-made meals for everyone. Taking place in the Church Hall below the storied church at 1359 Acushnet Avenue (enter through the Nye Street entrance), you can expect parish staples such as meat pies and baked goods in addition to the company of a congregation that’s being renewed for a new century. 

Come discover why St. Anthony’s is one of New England’s very special Sacred Spaces this weekend. The Harvest Bazaar takes place on Sat. Nov. 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 

All proceeds from this event will go towards the work now being done at the church to ensure it remains in the hearts and minds of New Bedford and here for the entire world well into the future.