Reverend John P. Finnegan Parish Center | St. Mary of Vernon Catholic Church

Reverend John P. Finnegan Parish Center

Parish Center Dedicated April 5, 1987	Dedicated as the Reverend John P.Finnegan Parish Center July 6, 2008
The St Mary of Vernon’s Parish Center was dedicated on April 5, 1987. It is transformed almost every day – not only around its outer walls, where changing seasons bring crocus and daffodils that turn to marigolds and chrysanthemums, but in the classrooms and meeting rooms and halls inside. A new room set-up is regularly required as many different groups utilize the parish meeting place for a wide variety of events. Here are just a few events and activities that took place in 2008: Kindergarten through 8th grade families participated in the PREP LENTEN GATHERING 2008 FORE - ty days of fasting, almsgiving, and prayer! Kitchen crews prepared a hearty meal for PADS guests in need of food and shelter for the night, as they do every Thursday evening, into Friday morning, from October through April. "Women at the Well" held renewal events open to all the women in the parish, and are planning events for the coming year. Alpha Omega Youth Ministry held a coffee house where the teens read poetry, told stories, played music and sang. Market Day occured, as it does each month throughout the year. A great way to support the good works of the Men's Club. Pre-Cana Marriage Preparation. Eighth grade Confirmation rehearsal dinner, provided and served by the seventh graders. Fall Fest, Pancake Breakfasts, The Chalk Guy, Alpha-Omega Movie Nights, Food, Sharing, Connection, Commission, Community!!!
Just over twenty years earlier – on Friday, March 13, 1987 – the brand new Parish Center had housed its first event, a St. Patrick’s Day celebration. In a bulletin article written about that time, St. Mary of Vernon’s pastor, Fr. John Finnegan, reflected:
	"As you visit our new Parish Center today we hope that you will join us in the enthusiasm of accomplishment and the realizing of our dreams. For years to come this new building will be the site of our learning and laughter, of our growth in the spirit and the sharing of our faith. We have come to serve and it is to our new Parish Center that that service will take place. It is our prayer that all, children, youth and adults, will gather and grow and be nourished there." April 5, 1987 (5th Sunday of Lent)
Through the time and commitment of many people who have played a part in the life of the parish, Fr. John’s musings have become reality. We pray that God’s Spirit and this community continue to flourish in the Parish Center now and in the future.