Parish History

"Meaningful new relationships usually require an extended, often painful, period of adjustment. It is remarkable, then, how brief and how pleasant, has been the moving out of the old St. Mary's Church and into the new building. When one considers that it has been open to worship fewer than three years, the comfort level enjoyed by parishioners has been nothing short of astonishing. While the razing of the former St. Mary's structure did not go unnoticed, it did so with minimal discord. One need only attend a Saturday or a Sunday Mass to be impressed not only with the number of worshippers present--a number, according to the Parish Bulletin, that increases weekly--but also at the extensive socializing taking place in the gathering space between masses. And this does not take into account the number of meetings and other events that take place there the rest of the week. For longtime parishioners, one is still taken aback to look across the street and see a lawn where the old church once stood. It's only a momentary glance, however, as the heart and soul of St. Mary, Star of the Sea, rest firmly and appropriately in its beautiful new building."

Neil Lynch, Jan 2007

All the information and photos on this page were gathered from a booklet printed by the parish to honor it's 100th Anniversity, May 2, 1976.

My Dear Parishioners

St. Mary Church rejoices on the occasion of its centennial. Abundant graces and blessings have been granted by Almighty God and the intercession of Our Blessed Mother. From a humble beginning of 600 souls, the faith has flourished through the dedication, loyalty and sacrifices of priests and people. Today, in gratitude, this parish of more than 4,000 souls renews its mission of salvation.

I congratulate the faith and cooperation of the parishioners during its first 100 years. May the faithful departed of the parish receive their eternal rest! May the coming years continue the spiritual and material growth of the past in the spirit of the Vatican 2 from the decree on the Church, "The Church believes that Christ, who died and was raised up for all, can through His Spirit offer man the light and strength to measure up to his supreme destiny. Nor has any other name under heaven been given to man by which it is fitting for him to be saved. She likewise holds that in her most benign Lord and Master can be found the key, the focal point, and the goal of all human history."

May God and His Blessed Mother bless each one of you, on this day, the birthday of your parish church.

Sincerely yours, in Christ,
James E Noonan, Pastor 1976