“Mangia, mangia!” That’s the invitation, of sorts, Rev. Peter J. Gower issued during a special luncheon inside Fioretti Hall in Johnston. Father Gower almost insisted that a dozen plus Our Lady of Grace parishioners, who were working feverishly slicing green peppers that will be used for sausage and pepper sandwiches during this weekend’s annual Italian Feast and Festival, take a break and to enjoy freshly made calzones and frittata.

The moment was, in fact, yet another excellent example of how Father Gower has created a sense of community coming together during his tenure as Pastor at the Roman Catholic Church. So, there was small talk – mixed with work – during the fun-filled luncheon that set the stage for OLG’s fun and food fest that will open its four-day run tonight beginning at 5 o’clock at Festival Field located on Sherman Avenue behind the church.