When Dick Leinenkugel first accepted the invitation to proclaim the First Reading at Ballpark Day of Faith, he discovered a tradition that felt tailor-made for a lifelong baseball fan and community-minded brewer.
The former Leinenkugel’s president still treasures the annual mash-up of Eucharist, tailgate fellowship and Brewers baseball—an event where nuns and Racing Sausages pose for photos and multiple generations gather around the same picnic table.
In this Q&A, Leinenkugel shares why the day’s joyful hospitality mirrors his own values, what first-timers can expect, and why Summer Shandy is still the perfect toast before first pitch.
Q: What originally drew you to attend Ballpark Day of Faith for the first time, and what impressions or conversations from that day still stick with you?
I was invited by Bob Simi and honored to be asked to proclaim the first reading at Mass. As a lifelong baseball fan, the combination of celebrating the Eucharist, enjoying fellowship at a tailgate, and then taking in a Brewers game was a natural and irresistible draw. That first experience left a deep impression, especially the joyful energy that surrounded the entire day.
Q: Is there a moment that best captures the spirit of hospitality you find at the event?
At my first Ballpark Day of Faith, I saw a group of joyful nuns posing with the Brewers' Racing Sausages. Everyone—clergy, kids, fans—was smiling and laughing. It was a beautiful moment where faith, fun, and community came together in such a lighthearted and memorable way. It truly captured the welcoming and joyful spirit of the day.
Q: Leinenkugel’s is known for fostering community around a shared table. How do the values you’ve nurtured in the brewery mirror what you experience at Ballpark Day of Faith?
At Leinenkugel’s, we’ve always celebrated family, community, and gratitude, especially for those who’ve helped us grow: our team members, distributors, retailers, and drinkers. That same spirit is alive at Ballpark Day of Faith. There’s a shared love for our Catholic faith, and a genuine respect for the greater spiritual family gathered there. It’s that unity—around the Eucharist and around each other—that makes the event so meaningful.
Q: For families considering their first visit this year, what would you say they should expect and what do you look forward to most at this event?
Expect a joyful and reverent liturgy—with inspiring music, meaningful readings, and a powerful celebration of the Eucharist. But also expect community, connection, and fun. The tailgate after Mass is a lively and heartwarming time to share food, stories, and laughter before enjoying a great Brewers game. For me, it’s the perfect day of faith, fellowship and family.
Q: We’ve seen multiple generations attend together. What hopes do you have for the next wave of participants, and how can today’s attendees help the tradition keep growing?
Ballpark Day of Faith is such a special celebration—rooted in our Catholic identity and elevated by its joyful, welcoming spirit in a very public, joyful place. I've often attended on Father's Day, and it’s become a tradition that’s especially meaningful: bringing my family or inviting others to celebrate with us. I hope new generations embrace that same spirit—of inviting others in and making this a joyful tradition that continues to grow, year after year.
Q: Ballpark Day of Faith turns 15 this year. From your perspective, what does that milestone say about the staying power of the idea?
Fifteen years speaks volumes. Sustained success like this only happens when an idea resonates deeply—and when it's stewarded with great care. Ballpark Day of Faith endures because it's uplifting, memorable, and unites people in faith and joy. Behind that experience is a dedicated group of volunteers who give their time and hearts to make it all happen. I’m truly grateful for their hard work and vision.
Q: Finally, when it comes time to raise a glass before first pitch, which brew is your personal go-to—and why does it pair so well with baseball on a summer afternoon?
Even though it’s now available year-round, Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy still feels like summer in a glass. It’s crisp, refreshing, and the perfect complement to a hot afternoon at the ballpark. Nothing pairs better with faith, family, and a Brewers game. Prost!
Q: Anything else to add?
A heartfelt thank you to Bob Simi and the entire team for keeping Ballpark Day of Faith such a vibrant celebration of the Eucharist. And from my wife, Jean: she wants to know if that “very charming young priest from Fond du Lac” will be back to help celebrate the Mass again this year.
