Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church

From humble beginnings, the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church has blossomed into a cornerstone of Denver’s community. In November 1911, forty families, mostly Italian descent farmers from the Welby area, dreamt of a place to worship. They began meeting in Rotolo’s grocery store, holding onto their vision. Just imagine them, huddled together, discussing their hopes for a church of their own. Soon, their dream began to materialize. They purchased land from the Denver-Laramie Railroad and by May 12, 1912, the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church was dedicated. The church was built for the astonishingly low price of $1,300. In October 1912, the church was entrusted to the Servants of Mary, the same order that served Our Lady of Mount Carmel. The Servite Order remained at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church until June 2003. The church has seen significant changes over the years. A vestibule and west bell tower were added in 1941. Then, in 1947, the original structure was almost entirely rebuilt, keeping only the vestibule and bell tower. A second bell tower was erected after World War II building restrictions were lifted, incorporating many original elements. The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church isn’t just a place of worship; it’s a vibrant community hub. The annual Bazaar and Spaghetti Dinner, a tradition dating back to the 1920s, continues to bring the community together. Originally part of a four-day bazaar, the Spaghetti Dinner became a separate event in 1963 when the bazaar moved to the summer. Even now, the Mollinaro family coordinates this beloved tradition, ensuring its continuation for generations to come. In 2003, the church welcomed Fr. Peter Dinh, the first diocesan priest to serve the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church after the Servants of Mary departed. Fr. Dinh spearheaded renovations, including updates to the church offices, school, and sanctuary, even installing a magnificent new organ. The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church stands as a testament to the enduring faith and community spirit of Denver. From a simple gathering in a grocery store to the vibrant parish it is today, it continues to serve as a beacon of hope and tradition.