Boynton Beach, Florida –  The gates of St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary opened to more than 500 people clad in red and green, as the 2nd Annual Joe-Paddy Festival kicked off .  Although the weather forecast was bleak, it didn’t prevent the crowds from coming to celebrate the feasts of St. Joseph and St. Patrick on seminary grounds.  The festival began with Vespers led by Deacon Chris LeBlanc, from the Diocese of Pensacola/Tallahasse.  The evening continued with Carlos M. Santana and Rosemary Stone performing Italian favorites while Jim and Laura Farrell, accompanied by Irish Step dancers, entertained the crowd with  Irish folk music.  Guests enjoyed traditional Italian and Irish foods and drinks as well as a silent and live auction with door prizes given out throughout the night.  Master of Ceremonies, Msgr. Stephen Bosso, gave a stellar performance as the live auctioneer and his dance to The Unicorn Song, an old Celtic Folk Song, left the crowd wanting more.

The Student Council, headed by President, Deacon Luis Rivero,  was largely responsible for Parish ticket sales and all aspects of service during the festival.  A portion of event proceeds goes directly to the Student Council to use to benefit student life on campus.

When asked about the success of the event, Msgr. Keith R. Brennan, President and Rector of St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary said, “The leadership of Co-Chairs, Denis Mullane and Msgr. Stephen Bosso was pivotal to this year’s program. The tireless efforts of committee members, Don Bosak, Dennis and Mary Sullivan, Dr. Joe and Kathy Olivella made a significant impact on the event’s success.”