While some churches are canceling events because of the snow storm Saturday night, one church in Buffalo pressed on and held a snow mass outside in the elements at St. Columba-Brigid Catholic Church.

"We love mother nature and we love the church and we figured this is the way to bring the two together," said Father Jud Wieksnar.  

Despite Western New York being in the middle of a snow storm, the mass was attended by a dozen people.

This all started at Saint Bonaventure University 15 years ago, where mass is celebrated outside during the first snowfall of the year. At least 100 students attend the mass every year, according to Father Jud.

"For people who love snow on the first day that there is at least six inches of snow on the ground we have mass outdoors," added Father Jud. 

Father Jud Wieksnar said the mass celebrates God’s creation, including weather.

During mass, the congregation prayed for everyone's safety during the storm.

Sister Alva Luz, a nun visiting Buffalo from Miami and is originally from Honduras, had never been in the snow before Saturday night.

"Yes, this is the first time that I am in this kind of weather never in my life! so this is going to be forever in my mind and in my heart," said Luz. "This also belongs to god, even though I don't like it," she chuckled. "That is why I am here." 

 

Father Jud hopes to continue this tradition at the church year after year.