Hundreds turn out for dedication of  St. Agnes Parish Center

Following the 12:30 Sunday Mass on June 6, 2004, members of the Parish of St. Agnes turned out in large numbers for the blessing and dedication of the new parish center that had been some four years in planning and construction.  

Described by Bishop William Murphy as “the grandest family room you could design” the new 15,000 square foot facility drew rave reviews from the many parishioners who saw the spacious and attractive interior for the first time. 

Murphy said it was only fitting that such a facility exist next to the cathedral where we celebrate so many of  the meaningful religious family events of our lives. He elaborated that the new facility will help us lift up our hearts as family in an expression of God’s love for family.   

In addition to Bishop Murphy,  Monsignor James Kelly, Cathedral Rector, Des McCarthy, Parish Trustee and Donna Eschenauer, Director of Religious Education took part in the building blessing. The Cathedral Men’s and Boy’s Choir, the Senior Girls Choir and the Cathedral Chorale provided music. 

At the conclusion of the 12:30 Mass, prior to the Parish Center dedication, Bishop Murphy announced that Monsignor James Kelly had been elevated to the title of Monsignor Protonotary Apostolic by Pope John Paul II. This is the highest level of three levels of Monsignor.  

Following the blessing, a representative of Jarro Construction Company, the building contractor, presented Bishop Murphy with a gold key to the building. Murphy in turn, handed the key to Monsignor Kelly.  Kelly thanked all the parishioners that had worked and contributed to the Faith in Action – Building Our Future campaign to raise funds for the building construction. 

Refreshments followed the formal activities as parishioners took the opportunity to renew friendships, socialize and tour the new parish facility.