Community Event: Culture Class at First Lutheran Church
Featured Speaker: Josie Gerardi
Josie Gerardi will be the featured speaker at the upcoming culture class hosted by the First Lutheran Church in Warren. This event will take place on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. The class is part of a series designed to mirror the experiences of Pastor Jeff Ewing, who has received a 2026 Pastoral Renewal Grant from the Lilly Foundation.
Gerardi’s presentation, titled “Living on the West Side and Italian Culture,” highlights the rich Italian heritage of the community.
About Josie Gerardi
- Background: Gerardi is a retired educator, having taught Home Ec/Family Consumer Science for 30 years at Youngsville High School. She was also a Curriculum Coordinator for Practical Arts.
- Community Involvement: As a Penn State Master Gardener, she has engaged in numerous local programs and has a deep passion for gardening and antiques.
- Culinary Contributions: Known for her homemade biscotti, jams, salsas, and jellies, Gerardi once canned over 900 jars in a single summer.
- Gardening Legacy: With over 20 years on Warren’s Street Landscape Committee, she played a significant role in local projects, including the Healing Garden at Crescent Park.
Italian Heritage
Gerardi’s grandparents immigrated to America over 100 years ago, settling in Warren’s West End. This area was known for its fertile soil, ideal for farming. Gerardi and her family maintain connections to their heritage by growing heirloom beans and garlic that have been cultivated for generations. Her home, built on the site of her father’s garden, features an old shed crafted by her grandfather.
The community is encouraged to join this engaging event and learn more about Warren’s rich Italian cultural history.
For more information, please contact First Lutheran Church at 814-723-6450.
