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Parish History
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And I began with a phone call – a new annunciation to a priest named Father Bill Finnegan. His yes echoed Mary’s YES, and the parish began.
I am Our Lady of the Woods Parish … I have known many beginnings: in the gathering of two or three people in the Lord’s name in the dreams of planning committees over and over in the prayers of my people. I began with the installation of a pastor and I am renewed with each new baptism and registration of new parishioners for our faith community.
I am Our Lady of the Woods Parish … A time to say good-bye as Fr. Bill retires and a hello to Fr. Mike O’Connell as he steps in as parish leader. Growing pains come with a new pastor and soon we have a building with meeting rooms for REP and space to watch parishioners come together for CRHP, athletic events and a parish dinner. Bishop Gorman takes up residence in the rectory. He and the Pastor Emeritus support Fr. Mike as shepherds of a growing community.
I am Our Lady of the Woods Parish … A staff of faithful ministers, the Parish Council, and its commissions filled with diverse and wonderful organizations.
I am Our Lady of the Woods Parish … The boundaries get hazy, the congregation grows. Buildings need repair, the parking lot needs work but the community finds a way to develop traditions that keep us together, even gain a nickname—We are the OWLS!
I am Our Lady of the Woods Parish … I am the celebration of every liturgy, Baptism, wedding, funeral and sacrament that calls my people together in the name of the Lord.
I am Our Lady of the Woods Parish … Blessed with a community dedicated to helping others by the Giving Tree, PADS, St. Vincent de Paul Society, St. Peter Rabbit Patch, Operation Rice Bowl, Teen Mission Trips, food and clothing drives plus the out-stretched hand that is always ready to help a neighbor.
I am Our Lady of the Woods Parish … Choirs for the young cherubs and adults make liturgies special as I claim the gospel as tradition and the story of all God’s people as my own history. Candles and compassion, vestments and vision, ancient rituals and spiritual formation help the parish grow in friendships and proclaim the Good News of the Lord.
I am Our Lady of the Woods Parish … It is good to be here with doors wide open and a sign that says ALL ARE WELCOME!
This is our Parish… Our Lady of the Woods! |
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