Lichty Family Farm hosts Rural Life Mass

Despite a Friday morning thunderstorm, several hundred people from across the area gathered at the Lichty Family Farm south of Waterloo for a Rural Life Mass celebrated by Archbishop Thomas Zinkula of the Archdiocese of Dubuque.

The Mass was held beneath a large tent and several canopies, with the farm’s historic red barn and cattle providing the backdrop. Zinkula was joined by several priests from the archdiocese for the celebration. The farm is operated by Pat Lichty, wife of the late Randy Lichty, and their son John and his wife, Kayla.

Family members and friends spent weeks preparing the farm grounds and buildings to welcome the hundreds of visitors. Following the Mass, Zinkula blessed the land, tractors and livestock. An awards ceremony and luncheon followed as the rain ended and skies began to clear.

Dr. Phil and Pat Edler were presented with the Friend of the Farmer Award in recognition of their many years of contributions to farmers, students and others throughout the community. Members of the Black Hawk County Cattlemen grilled hamburgers and hot dogs for those attending.