The picnic of San Michele Arcangelo (St-Michael the Achangel) was organized as well this year at the Chapel of La Réparation in Pointe aux Tremble by the Associazione Culturale di Campodipietra a Montreal. In addition to being celebrated in union with the villagers of our hometown, it was also animated by a spirit of patriotism commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Unification of Italy. At the annual picnic we displayed the tricolor to celebrate our roots in Canadian soil, this year with many small green, red and white flags the festivity seemed more emotional and important because it kept us united not only with our village, but also with our home Country. To commerate this solemn anniversary the Association had two Gards in uniform (Bersaglieri) positioned next to the altar during Mass, they also escorted the procession along its route. The Mass, celebrated by Father Harmel of the Order of the Brothers of Minor Capucin, was sung by the "Choral St. Michael" founded by our President Joe Pilla along with the accordionist Cosmo Paone. Exceptionally the mass began with the official anthem in honor of San Michele Arcangelo near the statue of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina.

The entertainment was provided by the DJ Marino, and young and old rejoiced with his musical repertoire.

Our traditional picnic in the open air attracts many participants because the food is good and we have fun. The dinner was prepared by l’Auberge Universel, the ladies of the committee put on their aprons and were dedicated to serve many guests. The picnic allowed moments of harmony and friendly conversations with former compaesani. At the end of the afternoon it was time to regroup all participants of the event to honor all Michele and Micheline for the ritual cutting of the cake prepared, as usual, by Laura pastry, which delighted every palate. Unfortunately, just after dessert, a sudden storm redirected all our participants on the way home. According to the Gospel of the day we can almost call our picnickers "men of little faith" because after that little storm, we could have continued our celebrations, to the Via Crucis and greet our patron saint with the last prayer in his honor and then return home in hopes to be back again next year.