From humble farmland to a vibrant hub of faith, the Resurrection of Our Lord Church has quite a story to tell. Right here, where we stand today, once stretched acres of land owned by the Fields, Fishers, and Roberts families. Imagine their surprise when, in 1928, Cardinal Dennis Dougherty acquired their land to establish this very parish! It was a time of great change, as 110 families were reassigned from St. Cecilia, Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and St. Martin of Tours parishes to form the heart of this new community.
The Resurrection of Our Lord Church you see before you wasn’t always this grand. The first building, a modest three-story structure of gray limestone, housed a chapel, classrooms, and an auditorium. Can you picture the dedication of those early parishioners? In 1939, ninety-one men from the parish volunteered to add a third floor to the building. Think about it – no fancy equipment, just sheer manpower and community spirit! Their efforts allowed the school to expand, making space for a growing student population and accommodating more Sisters of St. Joseph who were instrumental in educating the children.
Over the years, the Resurrection of Our Lord Church witnessed remarkable growth. A new, larger church was dedicated in 1958, the one we stand before today. It’s a beautiful example of modern English Gothic architecture, adorned with intricate stone carvings and French stained-glass windows. Take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship, especially the largest window above the entrance, depicting the resurrection of Christ.
But the story doesn’t end there. The Resurrection of Our Lord Church continued to evolve, adding a rectory, a convent, and even undergoing renovations to reflect the changes brought about by the Second Vatican Council. Each era brought its own challenges and triumphs, from managing parish debt to celebrating a momentous 75th Jubilee. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of this community that they not only survived but thrived. The Resurrection of Our Lord Church, with its rich history and vibrant community, stands as a beacon of faith and a testament to the power of human connection.