Parish History

Letter from the Archbishop

May 2, 1976

The Reverend James F. Noonan, Pastor
The Reverend Paul A. Wirkus, Assistant Pastor
Devoted Parishioners of St. Mary Parish, Unionville

With all members of the parish family I join today in thanking Almighty God for the many treasures of the Catholic faith and spiritual graces bestowed through a full century of history of St. Mary Star of the Sea Parish and Church.

As the nation celebrates its bicentennial, you pause to recall those events that took place as this nation marked its centennial. Before 1876 the Catholics of Unionville, had been a mission from St. Mary Parish in New Britain and St. Patrick's in Collinsville. But in 1876 this large church was built by the Pastor of Collinsville - a large church, indeed, for the 600 Catholics of Unionville. One of the minor mysteries of the Archdiocese is the title: "Star of the Sea." For Unionville is quite removed from the sea. The building pastor's name, however, was Father Bernard O'R. Sheridan. Is it possible that he was named for the second bishop of Hartford, Bernard O'Reilly? And that he named this church to recall Bishop O'Reillys tragic death by drowning at sea in January of 1856, twenty years before?

At any rate, it is appropriate for you to pause today, to be mindful of those who in the faith left this centennial and perennial heritage, and to rededicate yourselves today to the highest ideals of parish life.

The spirit and spirituality of this parish are commendable. May you continue to be an inspiration to the community and the Archdiocese, an encouragement to your priests - and increasingly so as the years move on.

With congratulations and blessings, I am Devotedly yours in Christ,

Most Reverend John F. Whealon
Archbishop of Hartford