Two thouand parishioners from Holy Trinity Parish gathered at Fred Brown amphitheater, Peachtree City on June 5 to celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi and to witness to their parish motto: "We Are Family."

The idea for the mammoth liturgy was conceived at the annual leaders' workshop in late April.

The Mass also was an opportunity to invite back those who had been away from their faith. It was advertised in local newspapers, and flyers were posted throughout Peachtree City with the invitation, "If you've been away from your Catholic Faith, come home."

Judy Baker, parish bulletin printing coordinator, said "We wanted to welcome those who were part of our family currently, as well as those who had fallen away from our family."

Over 50 parishioners helped plan and implement the celebration. "It was thrilling to see the enthusiasm of so many who worked together to make the Mass a success," Deacon Don Kelsey said.

The Knights of Columbus, in charge of parking, used golf carts to shuttle elderly and infirm parishioners from cars to amphitheater. One senior citizen, unable to navigate the amphitheater stairs, celebrated the liturgy perched in the front seat of her golf cart.

Three choirs joined voices in a celebration of song. Keyboard and guitar musicians were accompanied by teen musicians on flutes and drums.

At the end of the Mass, Father Edward O'Connor, pastor, thanked the parishioners for all they had accomplished during the past year and invited the congregation forward to receive a cross in recognition of their service to Holy Trinity.

"We wanted to thank all who have done so much for our parish, the eucharistic ministers, ushers, those who wash the altar linens, cut the grass, babysit children-- every member of the family is needed," said Jeanette Schortmann, Pastoral Council vice chairman, who coordinated the cross presentation. Over 1400 crosses were distributed.

Lois Burke, Women's Guild chairman, who aided in distributing crosses, said, "... I was moved seeing so many come forward. For me it was a special opportunity to represent the parish in thanking those who had worked to make our parish better."

Mike Midas, Leaders' Council chairman, said, “the Mass culminated the Leaders’ council work this past year and improved community and communication within the church. Two thousand people together at one time was the highlight of our community building efforts."

Father O'Connor said, "As a community we were brought closer to the Lord and each other, and became more of a parish family."