This article examines popular religion and its potential as a means of Christian religious education. In particular, it studies the traditional Italian "Festa" and the manner in which communities may use this and similar traditions as a means of fashioning a people and as a context in which to educate toward communion. The article argues that the "Festa" tradition can be a fruitful expression of the educational vision of various noted educators. In demonstrating this potential, the article reports research conducted at the 118th Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Brooklyn, New York. The experiences and observations of the author are evaluated in light of the work of contemporary religious educators and church documents. (Contains 5 footnotes.)