How about embarking on a journey to when Our Lady Help of Christians Church found its roots? This church has a captivating story. It began with a community seeking a place to call their own.
Our Lady Help of Christians was formally established in September 1980. James Cardinal Hickey appointed Fr. Peter R. Alliata as the first pastor. Those early years shaped a wonderful ecumenical spirit. It still exists today.
Knowing they were a community without a home local churches opened their doors. They invited the community to share their facilities. For over ten years the Saturday evening Mass was celebrated at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church. The Peace Lutheran community even gave them a key to their front door. This allowed for evening meetings.
In June 1990, Our Lady Help of Christians returned the keys to both churches. The construction of their own church was complete. The community never forgot those years of wandering. It formed and shaped them.
In November 1987 Fr. Alliata was transferred. Fr. Eamon Dignan was appointed as the second pastor. Construction of a church became the highest priority. Education facilities were also needed for a rapidly growing community.
The present structure of the sanctuary includes classrooms and a social hall. It was constructed in three phases. The first phase was completed in May 1990. The second phase included ten classrooms and offices. It was ready for the CCD program in the fall of 1999. The final phase the social hall was completed in the spring of 2000.
In June 2004 Our Lady Help of Christians welcomed its third pastor Fr. Thomas Crowley. The current pastor is Fr. Alain Colliou. He arrived in September 2010.
Our Lady Help of Christians stands as a testament to faith. It is a symbol of community and perseverance. The church at 100 Village Street is near the Smallwood Village Shopping Center. It is also located near the Waldorf Library and Benjamin Stoddert Middle School.
Our Lady Help of Christians Parish celebrates 40 years. The Altar is like a family table. It is a gateway to heaven.