Sons of Italy of Orland Park Host Saint Joseph's Table

A long-standing Italian tradition will return to Orland Park on Monday, March 9 when the Sons of Italy of Orland Park Leone D’Oro Lodge 2700 host a Saint Joseph’s Table at the Orland Park Civic Center, 14750 South Ravinia Avenue. The event begins at 6 p.m.

One of the most beloved saints among Italian-Americans, Saint Joseph was the foster father of Jesus and is the patron saint of workers and the protector of the family. He is honored with a feast day on March 19.

“Orland Park’s Sons of Italy Lodge is excited to bring back the Saint Joseph’s Table and we look forward to helping a deserving organization,” said Orland Park Leone D’Oro Lodge 2700 President Paul Loparco.

In the tradition of the Saint Joseph’s Table, attendees are asked to bring non-perishable food items for the Together We Cope Food Pantry.

“I’m very excited to be working with the Sons of Italy to be bring this great event back to Orland Park --- inviting the community to come together to enjoy a simple pasta dinner,” said Orland Park Village Trustee Dan Calandriello. “Events like this bring neighbors together, fostering a small town feel for Orland Park,” he added.

The Saint Joseph’s Table tradition dates back to the Middle Ages when there was a severe drought in Sicily. The people prayed to their patron, Saint Joseph, asking for relief from the famine. When the rains returned the people used their crops to give thanks and share their good fortune.

“It’s great to see the Sons of Italy celebrate a wonderful Italian tradition and help Together We Cope at the same time,” said Joe La Margo, president of the Orland School District 135 School Board. “I remember going to many Saint Joseph’s Tables growing up. It was a family tradition for both my dad’s and my mom’s families,” he said.

Located in Tinley Park, Together We Cope helps Southland residents in temporary crisis by providing food, shelter, clothing and referrals. The non-profit helps people from 27 southland communities in Bremen, Orland, Palos and Worth Townships.