NORTH?SCITUATE – Surrounded by nearly 100 parishioners, Father Roger Houle and Monsignor John Darcy blessed and dedicated the newly-added parish center at Saint Joseph Parish last Friday.
The new center has doubled the size of the church, provides meeting space, a state-of-the-art kitchen, a youth ministry room and more classroom space.
“When I came here six years ago, the parishioners made it very clear that this growing and cohesive church community needed more room to expand and more programs for our youth ministry,” said Fr. Houle. “I am so proud and grateful for the efforts of so many that made this day a reality. The time has come to bless this space and dedicate it to continuing our mission of evangelizing the community and continuing God’s work.”
Excited parishioners began gathering at 4 p.m.
“Isn’t it beautiful, and isn’t it great to have Monsignor Darcy with us to bless our new center,” said Gloria DelGreco. “What a wonderful day for our church!”
Monsignor Darcy praised the project and the collective efforts of the parish. “It’s wonderful to be here with you to bless this beautiful parish center,” he said. “The outcome of your work speaks to the closeness of your church community.”
Monsignor Darcy also recognized Father Varghese T. J. Thekkeattayil, new pastor of St. Eugene in Chepachet, and Father Marcin Mioduszewski, the assistant pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Woonsocket who were on hand for the ceremony. The parish center crucifix, which adorned the original church in 1939, was hung by Father Houle, who proudly noted, “The hanging of this crucifix is a perfect way to connect the rich history of our parish to its current vitality.”
Monsignor Darcy sprinkled Holy Water throughout the new center, and concluded with prayer and a hymn.
“Remember,” said Father Houle, “this is not my church, it is our church; and I remain grateful for your enthusiasm and love for our parish. This was truly a parish community effort.”
He also recognized Tom Resendez, a St. Joseph parishioner who was a key member of the construction team. “Tom was unexpectedly called away, and could not be with us today, but I extend sincere thanks to him, as his commitment to the project made today a reality.”
St. Joseph Parish was originally dedicated on March 19, 1939. In its 69-year history, the church has grown to be an integral part of not only the Catholic community but the village of North Scituate.
In a town where the population is 10, 340, St. Joseph’s Parish serves 1,200 families – nearly 4500 parishioners. St. Joseph Parish has an active Women’s Guild and a Knights of Columbus chapter with 105 members, and a vibrant youth ministry program. In May, 43 children will make their first Holy Communion.
The dedication ceremony was followed by the annual Lenten supper. As the new hall began to fill with more and more people, each commented on the beauty of the new center.
The Ducharme family chose a table on the right side wall, noting the vista. “Not only is it a beautiful addition, we can finally enjoy the water view. This is wonderful,” said Sue Ducharme.
Maria Holland agreed. “The lighting, windows and color are superb!”
Wide-eyed Luke Fantasia, First Communion candidate, concurred, as his eyes scanned the entire space. “This is great,” he pronounced.
As clam cakes and chowder were efficiently served by more than 30 volunteers, the tables of hungry parishioners appeared very comfortable in their new space. The first Lenten supper in the new center was officially underway, and from the kitchen could be heard the sounds of the church community back in action. “Order up!” beckoned chef Bobby DelGreco.
