On Sunday June 21, 2015 our community of faith gathered to celebrate a significant moment in the life of the parish as marked 125 years of St. Lawrence Parish’s ministry to the North End of Hamilton.
The walls of this beautiful building have witnessed so much. Just imagine how many children have been welcomed here to the life of faith through the Sacrament of Baptism, how many couples have said “I do” at their weddings, how many people’s lives have been celebrated here as we’ve said our final goodbye to them at funerals. If only these walls could talk! There is certainly so much to be grateful for and so much to appreciate in this place “Where Faith Builds Community.”
PICTURES from the Anniversary Mass:
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This anniversary celebration is not only about remembering the past, but also about imagining the future and moving forward to new beginnings. We need the courage to embrace a new vision, to do things differently, to imagine this parish alive and welcoming, a place where newcomers can make a spiritual home. We are looking forward to creating a plan for welcoming new parishioners, developing parish goals for all age groups, and promoting stewardship—all in keeping with the Parish Mission Statement: “We are called to grow as disciples of Jesus Christ by actively embracing our Baptismal commitment. We gather as a family of faith at the Eucharist. Through our experience of shared faith we strive to build a welcoming community.”
PICTURES from the Anniversary Dinner:
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PRAYER FOR THE RENEWAL OF OUR PARISH:
Heavenly Father, You have gathered us together as a parish to be Your visible life in our world. Here we unite in worship, proclaim Your word, celebrate the Eucharist, and are sent forth to share Your love and make disciples. Lord, we take your Great Commission seriously and long for our parish to be so on-fire that we draw people to You. Help us in that endeavor, as we strive to work together—ordained, religious and laity. Please make our parish amazing, through Your power and Your grace. Amen.