St. Cuthbert Episcopal hosts international festival

Cultures from around the world will celebrate their diversity at St. Cuthbert Episcopal Church's fifth annual International Festival on Saturday, Nov. 6.

This event, which includes food, games, entertainment, native dress and music, is free.

Countries to be represented are Jamaica, Grenada, St. Lucia, Brazil, Cuba, Mexico, Trinidad, Tobago, Antigua, Barbados, Spain, Russia, Japan, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Liberia, Ghana, Kenya, Germany, Italy, Scotland, Switzerland, England, France and Latvia.

Texas and Louisiana foods and culture will also be celebrated.

The Rev. Desmond Goonesekera, rector of St. Cuthbert's, has seen the demographics and population change since he joined the church 10 years ago.

The purpose of this event is to celebrate that diversity he said.

"This is one of the most unique congregations in Houston. I thought we should bring people together to let them witness the experience and the beauty of it. I want them to see how we function and the gifts we bring. This is most miraculous thing I've seen, and I've traveled the world. We have much to share among us," Goonesekera said.

Children will have the opportunity to obtain a passport and use flag stickers to mark all the countries they visit during the two-hour event. Seven Cy-Fair ISD elementary schools have been invited to participate.

Sarah Mahon, lay minister at the church, first joined the festivities in 2007 and has seen it progress tremendously. She said more than 200 people are expected to attend the 30 booths.

"It's such an honor to be part of this where you can learn the history and culture of people you see every Sunday. You might not have the opportunity to travel, but to see people share their pride and joy. There are so many things to look at and taste," Mahon said.

Emmanuel Golakai and his family are planning a return visit as they host a booth celebrating their native country of Liberia. They'll bring food, hats and masks.

Golakai, a Cypress resident, said the cultural celebration is exciting.

"It's like visiting each country. I'm fortunate to be part of it and experience different cultures in a place of worship. It's a wonderful time to taste and know the other cultures. The exposure is amazing," Golakai said.