As you know, the Vestry of St. Michael’s, per the recommendation from the Lobster Lunch Committee, has cancelled this year’s Lobster Lunch. This decision was made after much deliberation. Given the current physical distancing restrictions and health protocols due to the COVID-19 virus, it was unanimously felt that this is the proper determination. You also are likely aware that the Marblehead Festival of the Arts has canceled its annual July 4th festival and related events, and the Town of Marblehead its July 4th fireworks.

Each year the net proceeds of the Lobster Lunch are donated, with half of these proceeds supporting our partnership with St. Thomas Church, Arcahaie, Haiti. Our donation specifically supports the elementary school run by the church. It is a primary source of revenue for the school allowing for a hot lunch for the students, or in some years, teacher’s salaries. 

The Vestry, with the affirmation of the Lobster Lunch Committee, has voted to undertake a special fundraising effort specifically for our partnership with St. Thomas Church and School in Haiti, with a goal of raising $10,000. This effort will take place through the month of July. 

If you are willing and able to donate, we encourage you to do so by clicking on the button below or you may send a check payable to St. Michael’s Episcopal Church with “Haiti Partnership” written in the memo line. Again, our annual support of St. Thomas is a critical means of revenue for the operation of the school and well-being of its students.

The other half of the Lobster Lunch proceeds traditionally is given to local non-profit organizations helping people in need.  We are pleased to announce that in lieu of the Lobster Lunch this year, St. Catherine’s Guild has made donations to a number of our local organizations, including My Brother’s Table, LifeBridge, and the Marblehead Food Pantry.

Clearly this is a very unusual time and our approach to nearly everything seems to be different this year. The Lobster Lunch follows this same pattern, but we sincerely hope that we can again welcome thousands of joyful patrons to our tent in July of 2021. We very much appreciate your consideration of this important effort.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Ellie Doyle (Lobster Lunch Coordinator), Sue Cool and Barbara Miller (Wardens), or Fr. Stoessel.