St. Paul the Apostle Church in Alliston Celebrates 150 Years of 'Walking in Faith with Christ'

On August 30, the parish community of St. Paul the Apostle in Alliston, Ont., marked the end of a year of celebrations in honour of their 150^th anniversary. His Eminence Frank Cardinal Leo celebrated Mass and was accompanied by Pastor Rev. Norberto Eyule, Deacon Mr. Michael Lewis and former pastors who returned to concelebrate with his Eminence.  

In his homily, His Eminence called the congregation to reflect upon the commitment of those who came before us, the founders of the parish who laboured tirelessly to establish St. Paul the Apostle Church. The cornerstone for the original Church was laid on May 28, 1876, by Archbishop J.J. Lynch. Less than a year later, on New Year’s Day in 1877, the Church was dedicated to St. Paul by Bishop Crinnon, Bishop of Hamilton and named St. Paul the Apostle. After serving the community for 116 years, major repairs were required to the original structure. It was determined that a new church would be built and the first Mass was celebrated in the new Church on Easter Sunday April 19, 1992. A beautiful anniversary quilt was lovingly prepared by parishioners to reflect the journey of the parish.

The theme of the year of celebrations was “Walking in Faith with Christ.” The Anniversary Committee planned monthly events to bring the parish and school communities together. The Commemorative Mass was the culminating celebration. The Church was filled to capacity as parishioners joined together in prayer and jubilation. Parishioners were treated to a delicious banquet following Mass where His Eminence took time to visit with all. As the banquet was drawing to a close, Cardinal Leo blessed a time capsule inscribed to mark the date of this 150^th Anniversary Mass. The capsule contains historical items along with contributions from the Parish, Catholic Women’s League, Knights of Columbus, Youth Group, Elementary and Secondary Schools. The capsule will be planted in the Fall with direction to have it removed and the contents reviewed in 50 years.

We are grateful for the generations of faithful who have built and sustained this community with prayer, dedication and love.