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It has been a busy summer at. St. Mary’s since our Church Renovation project began at the end of June. Because of the challenges with construction and renovation projects that we are all facing at this point in time, it was decided to divide the work into two phases. The first is the work that has been taking place this summer which required closing the church for weekend and daily Masses. That work is nearing comple- tion, and we will be able to return to our church for Masses next weekend  September 10 & 11. Yes, just in time for our Centennial Mass! Whew!

St. Mary’s Parish was established on September 10, 1922 by Bishop Thomas O’Leary, Bishop of the Diocese of Springfield, who also on the same day named Fr. Thomas McKoan the first resident pastor for the town of Shrewsbury. St. Theresa’s Church on Main Street continued to be used as the parish church while the mission in the Lake Shore area was moved from the Palais Royal, first to a tent on the grounds behind St. Anne’s Cemetery and then to the old dye building across the street.

This September 10th marks the 100th anniversary of St. Mary’s Parish and the appointment of Fr. Thomas F. McKoan as the first Pastor . Happy 100th Birthday St. Mary’s Parish! We are looking forward to celebrating our 100th Anniversary on September 11th with a Mass & Reception as we open a year long observance of our centennial. Please be sure to join us!