What began as just something different for a fellowship activity at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Jackson in 1981 quickly turned into a tradition that has outlived many parishioners, rectors and relationships.
The annual event will celebrate its 30th anniversary come Oct. 9th. St. Philip’s Goat Roast has become a tradition looked forward to by countless people and families, both parishioners and non-parishioners alike. There are those who live away from Jackson who plan their travels based on when the Goat Roast will be held.
Initially the event was around the July 4th holiday, but it is now held on the second Sunday in October when the weather is much more acceptable. This change of date accounts for almost 450 to 500 people gathering at St. Philip’s for the Bluegrass Mass and the moving to the Hollow for an afternoon of Bluegrass music, good food and fellowship.
The music is provided by The Vernon Brothers and this is their 29th year to play at the Goat Roast. The event began small with only a few parishioners eating the meat of three goats after church that first Sunday. Over the years it has grown and become one of the most important activities among St. Philip’s families. However, the 30th Goat Roast brings about several notable changes.
Over the years the event has been more of a “fun” raiser, with the primary objective being a breakeven of expenses, with the focus being on just good fellowship and good food. This year’s Goat Roast has been elevated to a “fund” raiser, with the profits going into the parish’s Habitat for Humanity budget.
To aid assist in this fund raising effort, sponsorships are being sold and more of the supplies are being donated by parishioners. In addition to allowing the parish to contribute more dollars to Habit, it has also allowed the price of tickets for the Goat Roast to be reduced to $10 for adults and $5 for children under 12.
The biggest change in this 30th Goat Roast is that this year “the goat” is being pardoned for the event. Not having goat meat is a cost saving and labor reducing move. It also reflects the fact that fewer people are eating the goat meat cooked each year.
This year the cooking team will be cooking and chopping Boston butts to provide the needed meat. They are also planning on taking orders for additional butts just prior to the weekend.
The Goat Roast is making changes, but only to become even better and more enjoyable for those participating. Everyone is invited to join St. Philip’s for this 30th annual fellowship activity that has become a tradition.
The Bluegrass Mass will begin at 10:30, with lunch and entertainment by The Vernon Brothers in the Hollow immediately following the Mass. Lunch tickets are available through the church office or will be on site during the event.
Jim Carrington is a parishioner at St. Philips, Jackson.
