By Jennifer Ersalesi
Grace Episcopal Church has been part of the Rutherford community since 1872. Throughout the years, the church clergy and its parishioners have found many ways to be an integral part of the Borough of Rutherford. One of their longest-standing traditions is the Holly Fair. This is Rutherford interviewed Reverend Karen Rezach to learn more about the Holly Fair and the church.
TIR: This year marks a special anniversary of Grace Episcopal’s Holly Fair…the 50th Anniversary. To what do you attribute the Holly Fair’s many decades of success?
Reverend Karen Rezach: The Holly Fair ushers in the holiday season. It takes place the weekend BEFORE Thanksgiving which makes it a "kick-off" event, and one that puts people into the holiday spirit. When you enter the Holly Fair space in the church, you are immediately taken by the beautiful lights, decorations and overall Christmas spirit. This is what brings people back year after year.
TIR: The Holly Fair will take place on the weekend of November 22nd. What can visitors expect when they visit this year?
RKR: People can expect many of the trusted traditions of the Holly Fair, including Christmas crafts, gifts and the annual Tricky Tray. This year, we have been blessed with an influx of gift cards and new merchandise to fill the Tricky Tray baskets. We have a new Snowman Cafe where delicious food will be available for purchase on Friday evening and Saturday afternoon. And, most especially, Santa will be visiting again for Breakfast with Santa on Saturday morning from 9 - 11:30 am, as well as Photos with Santa! It's a Christmas event for the whole family!
TIR: What else can you tell us about this year’s Fair?
RKR: This is the 50th Annual Holly Fair, so you can expect some golden anniversary surprises!
TIR: The Holiday season is a very exciting time at Grace Episcopal, what else will your parishioners and community members have to look forward to this year?
RKR: We have a wonderful new children's program, "Rise and Shine," that brings together children of all ages every Sunday morning at 9:45 am. Children hear a bible story each week and sing songs under the direction of musician, Rachel Silverstein. The children are also part of our Cherub Choir which sings at special Sunday Services, especially at Christmas! There will be a special Advent program leading up to Christmas, and look for us marching in Rutherford's Annual Holiday Parade!
TIR: Anything else you would like to share.
RKR: Here are some details about our Church.
Grace Episcopal Church
128 W. Passaic Avenue
Rutherford, NJ 07070
201-438-8623
"We welcome YOU to Grace Church, Rutherford Love God, love one another, and serve together."
Please join us every Sunday, 10 a.m. for the Holy Eucharist service and coffee hour to follow.
Here is the link to our Facebook Livestream.
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