“Bishop Loverde Creates A New Parish” the headline read. In the year 2000, a new chapter began for the Catholic community in Potomac Falls. Bishop Paul S. Loverde of the Diocese of Arlington established Our Lady of Hope.
Our Lady of Hope started with Father William Saunders. Bishop Loverde chose him to be the founding pastor. Father Saunders had to begin from scratch. He needed to find a rectory. Msgr. James W. McMurtrie helped him. They quickly found a house, a foreclosure property. Despite needed repairs, Father Saunders bought it. Contractors and volunteers helped prepare the rectory and parish offices.
Msgr. McMurtrie connected Father Saunders with Potomac Falls High School. The principal allowed the parish to use the auditorium for Mass. Classrooms became spaces for religious education. Father Saunders spoke at Masses at Christ the Redeemer Parish. Even before the first Mass, 300 families registered.
The first Mass for Our Lady of Hope was on August 6, 2000. It took place at Potomac Falls High School. Msgr. James W. McMurtrie officially installed Father Saunders as pastor. He represented Bishop Loverde.
Our Lady of Hope broke ground on its permanent church and school on October 25, 2003. Bishop Paul S. Loverde, Father Saunders, and Deacon Emley officiated. Over 300 parish members attended. This groundbreaking marked a significant step.
The Mass of Dedication for the church was held on January 17, 2006. Bishop Paul S. Loverde consecrated the altar. He dedicated the new church of Our Lady of Hope. Father Saunders, Parochial Vicar Father Bryan Belli, Deacon Emley, and priests from around the diocese joined him.
Our Lady of Hope Catholic School opened on September 6, 2005. It welcomed 158 children. They were in kindergarten through seventh grade. Mr. Joseph Orandello, the founding principal, prepared for the school year starting in January 2005.
In 2007, Mrs. Mary Beth Pittman became the school principal. She contributed to the school community for 14 years. In April 2021, she announced her retirement.
Father Anthony Killian became pastor in July 2020. He and the parochial vicar, Father Jordan Willard, regularly visit the school. They promote the school’s mission.
Mrs. Jeanne Canavan joined Our Lady of Hope School as principal on July 1, 2021. She had over 20 years of experience in Catholic education. She has master’s degrees in education and Catholic school leadership.
The people of Our Lady of Hope contributed to building the church and school. This unique parish began with a vision and grew through dedication. Our Lady of Hope stands as a beacon of faith.