Parishioners at St. Viator Catholic Community in Las Vegas continued a tradition last monthDSC_0406 that was a feast for the senses, literally.

In celebrating the feast day of the parish’s patron saint, they continued a tradition that showcases its diversity — and draws families together for a smorgasbord of culinary delights.

This was the sixth annual Taste of St. Viator and it featured food stations from American Southern Cuisine, Cajun, Italian, Polish, Indian, Hispanic, Filipino and Japanese — to name just a few.Chef preparing food

Even a mariachi band that included parishioners performed for the occasion, much to the delight of diners.

Chef Tom Rosenberger, a parishioner, organizes the event. He uses the Parish Center as his staging area for food prep and serving.

Families peruse the different specialties, before taking their meals out to the church plaza, which is set up with tables and chairs and set off by twinkling white lights.DSC_0537

The event is so popular that it draws nearly 1,000 parishioners — and all in celebration of their patron saint and vibrant parish community.

“The parish pays for all the food and we charge a nominal fee to attend,” says Anita Taylor, business manager, “but it’s not a fundraiser. It’s a celebration that gathers the whole parish.”