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Final Liturgy in Holden
Final Liturgy at St. Gregory the Great Roman Catholic Church in Holden
Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser
Dave Maruszeczka did the honour of ringing the church bell for the final time outside St. Gregory the Great Roman Catholic Church in Holden on Nov. 11.
Inside the chapel, nearly 90 people were assembled for the last mass that would be held there. It marked the end of 98 years of parish life. Celebrant Archbishop Richard Smith addressed the congregation by stating, “It’s obviously an historic moment and for those so long associated with this parish obviously also a sad one.
It’s a moment for us to gather in the presence of our Lord Jesus himself and Almighty God and thank him for the countless blessings bestowed upon you and your family for so, so many years and to entrust our future in the hands of God who loves us and who always accompanies us.”
Archbishop Smith spoke about the meeting that was held on Aug. 19, 2023. “Those who were present that day will recall how we ended the discussion and a recommendation was made to me that the time had come to close this parish. It was a decision reached after very careful deliberation. Not everyone was happy with the decision, but it was recognized by everyone as necessary.
What impressed me was the wisdom particularly to distinguish the life of faith from the building in which it is celebrated. As much as we love our church buildings, and we do; but what is of primary importance, of course, is the faith that emanates our lives.
This parish will now close…but the celebration of our faith, our growth in the faith will continue, even though in different places. In fact, the wisdom that you display is born of your faith, faith in the love of God who is always with us.”
Archbishop said it was fitting that the final mass would be celebrated on Remembrance Day. “Around the world we’re remembering the sacrifices made by men and women of the armed forces to their country and its citizens; and so, we do it here, too. At the same time, this final mass presents the opportunity to remember the countless sacrifices made by present and past parishioners in the service of this parish since its founding in 1925.
You have many memories in your hearts I know, and we thank God for all the blessings he bestowed upon you and your families throughout the life of this parish, and I thank God for the generous support you have given to it through its history.”
Admittedly, Archbishop Smith said, “There is a certain grieving that accompanies this mass. Closing a parish is like a death for its parishioners. So, perhaps we can heed the words of St. Paul in the second reading as he assures us that we do not grieve without hope because the resurrection of Jesus and power of God has taught us there is new life from death and hope that emanates in our hearts right now.”
Parish Priest Father Robert Lee recited special prayers at the Font, Stations of the Cross and the Altar to thank God for all the graces parishioners received by these images and places and artifacts.
Pastor Lee stated, “God our refuge our home is in you. You are greater than any temple, church or cathedral that could be built with human hands. Yet in this place we have met your divine majesty. This church has been a place of blessing for us, protect us on our way, and lead us to continue to worship wherever you should bring us. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.”
Parishioner Annette Whelen was very emotional about the closure. “I feel so bad its closing.” Whelen said she always prayed for everyone and had always enjoyed the time spent together after mass socializing over refreshments that were served.
Perhaps fittingly, parishioners broke bread together one last time during the potluck supper in the church basement following mass.
