St. Mary's 150th Anniversary

Easter Sunday, April 12, 2009

Dear Parishioners of St. Mary Parish,

As we rejoice in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ during this Easter season, it is also a time of reflection and thanksgiving as we recall how God has made His presence known in our parish. We are about to embark on a year-long celebration to commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the founding of St. Mary Parish by "Proclaiming our Past, Heralding our Future"and I invite you to take part in the many special events that are planned beginning with a special Anniversary Opening Mass and Parish Picnic, September 13, 2009 and ending with a Closing Mass and reception, September 12, 2010.

Founded in 1860, St. Mary Parish was formerly housed at Hudson’s Church on the Green. Since that time, our parish has grown from just a few families to nearly 3,000 families. One hundred fifty years is a testimony to the fidelity of God to this community. Through the countless number of people who have been touched by the ministries of this parish, the wisdom, compassion and the love of God have been extended far beyond the boundaries of the parish.  Throughout our rich and vibrant history, St. Mary Parish has been a major contributor to the life and vitality of Hudson. Now as we look towards the future, we continue our tradition of extending God’s love to others. Our past history gives us hope for future growth and vibrancy through the ongoing providence of God.

I am also very happy to announce the development of an outdoor Grotto prayer area. The Grotto has been designed by KGK Landscaping and is inspired by the Grotto to Mary at the University of Notre Dame. The Grotto will be located in the area outside the Reservation Chapel and will be accessed by a sixty foot walkway that we are affectionately calling the “150th Walkway.” The Grotto will feature a shrine to the Blessed Mother and seating for about fifty people. We envision this being a great place of solitude and prayer. It will also be nice for the occasional outdoor Liturgy or gathering. The walkway will feature a rose garden. The Grotto area is being donated by one anonymous parishioner. We invite you to be a part of the walkway. An invitation to be involved is outlined on the following pages. Artistic renditions of the Grotto and Walkway are on the bulletin board in the White Narthex and can be accessed on the parish website. The Bishop has given his blessing and we anticipate the project to start June 1 and be ready for dedication at the Opening Mass of the 150th Anniversary on September 13.  I encourage you to take a moment and read the following insert for more detailed information about the many events planned for the upcoming year, including a calendar of events and important information about our 150th Heralding Angel Society, a request for your financial support to make these plans a reality. Please prayerfully consider your involvement in any way possible and watch the bulletin for news and information related to this most momentous occasion.

In Christ,

Rev. Edward J. Kordas

Pastor