In 1972, a dream began to take root in Rivière-des-Prairies, Montreal. Father Romano Venturelli, a Salesian of St. John Bosco, saw the growing Italian community of 200 families and felt a calling. He started with pastoral work and founded the CSRDP, now known as the Club Soccer of RDP. Soon, the need for a spiritual home became clear. This led to the groundbreaking for Mission Marie Auxiliatrice in October 1983. Driven by Father Venturelli’s charisma, families rallied together to build their church. The first mass at Mission Marie Auxiliatrice was celebrated on August 5, 1983, in the almost-finished building. The official blessing by Archbishop Paul Gregoire followed on December 22, 1984. Mission Marie Auxiliatrice quickly became a vibrant hub. Father Venturelli led the parish until 2000, focusing on youth leadership within the church. He used the preventive system of St. John Bosco, empowering young people to become active members of the community. Mission Marie Auxiliatrice thrived under his guidance, the Salesian Sisters, and dedicated lay people. It grew into one of Montreal’s largest parishes, a testament to the vision of Father Venturelli and the community he inspired.
Parc Dickie-Moore
Who needs a time machine when you’ve got Parc Dickie-Moore? This little slice of Parc-Extension holds a century of Montreal