Last Friday, Airdo Werwas hosted “Holy Smokes,” our gathering in honor of the Feast of Pope Saint Pius X. Known for his humility, conviction, and service to the Church, Pius X was also known to enjoy cigars — a lesser-known detail that provided the inspiration for the evening.
From homemade focaccia and porchetta — a traditional Venetian dish enjoyed by the Pope — to baked rigatoni and affogato, the menu was an important part of the evening. Along with custom matchbooks, cigars, and conversation that carried throughout the night, the evening was intentionally personal. It gave us an opportunity to step outside the usual professional setting and simply enjoy time together around the table.
Pope Saint Pius X once wrote, “It is not sufficient to point out the good; it also must be put into practice.” There is something fitting in that sentiment. Hospitality, friendship, and community are meaningful not simply as ideas, but in the effort we make to create space for them.
We are grateful for an evening filled with good food, thoughtful conversation, plenty of laughter, and the opportunity to celebrate the Feast of Pope Saint Pius X in good company.
Holy Smokes 2026
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