Saint Mary of the Purification Roman Catholic Church here is celebrating its 150th anniversary with several events planned to recognize the special occasion. “This is a wonderful opportunity for both parishioners and members of the community,” said Father Murray Farwell. “We have chosen the motto, ‘Honour the Past – Celebrate the Future,’ and that is what we intend to do with our program.”
The celebration on May 10 at 7pm with a service of healing open to the community will coincide with the parish hosting the Relics of St. Br. Andre Bessette. The event will be followed on Sunday, May 12, with a commemorative mass by Bishop Douglas Crosby. Other events include recognition of the Jesuit Order that preceded the founding of St. Mary Parish, and a walking tour of the church to discuss how the building came to be in its present location, the fire of 1902 and the story of the snow storm of 1908 which led to the burial of Father O’Connell below the alter.
“I welcome all members of the community, parishioners and non-parishioners to come join us in celebrating our 150th anniversary,” Farwell said.
