Post Messenger Recorder -

After much discussion concerning the coronavirus pandemic and the protection and safety of the food preparers, servers, runners, delivery persons, and guests, the members of St. Francis of Assisi have regretfully decided not to offer its annual parish roast pork and chicken dinner on October 4, 2020.

The raffle still will be held, however.

"Prizes total more than $5,100," said Pastor Mick Moon. "And this year, the accent is on cash because that is what most people could use navigating COVID-19."

Please stop at St. Francis of Assisi to pick up and purchase raffle tickets. Each raffle ticket costs $10. You can fill out the raffle tickets when you pick up or you can mail or return the tickets back to the church at 338 South Harrison Street, Belleville. Raffle tickets may be purchased until 3:30 p.m., on Saturday, October 10.

"This is the major fundraiser of the year for St. Francis of Assisi Parish," said Pastor Moon. "We are very grateful for the area communities' support in the past and we invite your continued generosity."

The drawing will be at 4:00 p.m., on October 10, 2020, and raffle winners will be announced after the 5:00 p.m. Mass. Winners do not need to be present at the time of the drawing.

Pastor Moon added that the funds raised will be used for building improvements at St. Francis and St. Mary of Lourdes.

Prizes include: Grand prize: $1,000; 2nd prize: $500; 3rd prize: $500 Hoesly's Meats; 4th prize: $400; 5th prize: 300; 6th prize: $200; 7th prize: $200 in Scrip gift cards; 8th prize: $200 to Burreson's Foods; 9th prize: $200 to Miller and Sons Supermarket; 10th prize: $150 Francois Citgo; 11th prize: $150 Francois Citgo; 12th prize: $100; 13th prize: $100; 14th prize: $100; 15th prize: $100; 16th prize: $100; 17th prize: $100; 18th prize: $100 Farm & Fleet; 19th prize: $100 Farm & Fleet; 20th prize: 155 piece Mechanic Tool Set; 21st prize: Handmade quilt.