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MOUNT OLIVE — Hundreds of Latinos gathered at the St. Mary of the Angels Catholic Church in Mount Olive on Sept. 15 for the church’s Fall Festival Kermes in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.
The area adjacent to the church was transformed into a vibrant, colorful space where families gathered to celebrate and help raise funds for the church.
Adriana Ramirez, the event organizer, told Duplin Journal that the Kermes has been so well received by the Spanish-speaking community that it has become a tradition.
The Kermes was a lively affair, featuring a diverse range of activities such as music, dancing, trampolines, traditional foods, a soccer tournament, prizes, and performances. These offerings delighted participants of all ages, ensuring that everyone had a memorable time. The funds raised will contribute to the church’s plan to build an annex for its parish hall.
The celebration began with the national anthems of various Spanish-speaking countries, followed by the Guatemalan band Maria Reyna, who presented the queens and kings of the Kermes.
“We all know that there are many people from around the world here today. We would like to thank this country for the warm welcome to what now has become our own nation. Thank you,” exclaimed Omaira Plount, the master of ceremonies.
Plount presented St. Mary of the Angels’ folkloric dance group, Los Colores de mi Tierra, representing traditional dances from Mexico, Guatemala, Panama, and Colombia.
“This multicultural group is represented by children and adolescents,” said Plount, who is in her third year serving as the emcee. “They have been working hard preparing these beautiful dances for you. You will be delighted with the traditions and costumes throughout the beautiful dances.”
The event featured several organizations presenting information on health, immigration, education, and finance — all free.
Plount explained that the Kermes is more than just a celebration; it plays a crucial role in inspiring our youth and showing them that there is hope and a supportive community to help them pursue their dreams. When young people see the wealth of support and resources available to them, they are encouraged to aim high, said Plount.
