August 27, 2004

St. Francis of Assisi benefits from Mirassou winemaking skills

The fifth-generation Mirassou brothers—Jim, Peter and Dan—have left their mark on the Evergreen Valley in one more important way. With their help, St. Francis of Assisi established a parish vineyard in 2002.

“The historic vineyards and orchards of San Jose’s Evergreen district have given way to modern-day homes and shopping centers,” said Msgr. John Sandersfeld, Pastor of St. Francis.

“With the help of local vintners Jim, Peter and Daniel Mirassou,” he continued, “a link to our past was renewed with a new vineyard at this church. Mel Bueno, our facilities and grounds manager, guided the parishioners and day laborers as they planted, pruned and nurtured the young vines. This wine represents a labor of love and a harvest of hope.” 

The wine bottled from the first harvest will be available for purchase at the Oct. 2 “St. Francis of Assisi Feast Day Celebration.” The St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Community is located at 5111 San Felipe Rd. in San Jose. For information, call the parish office at (408) 223-1562 or visit the Web site: www.stfrancisofassisi.com.