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Dec 13, 2012 | Susan Dunn Richardson

St. Mary's, Bellville, Celebrates 150 Years

St. Mary
St. Mary
St. Mary
St. Mary
St. Mary
St. Mary
St. Mary
St. Mary
St. Mary
St. Mary
St. Mary

 

St. Mary's Episcopal Church, Bellville, recently celebrated its founding and 150th Anniversary.  The Parish was the 26th church to be admitted into the Diocese of Texas on June 7, 1862. Members of the church and community gathered Saturday evening, October 20, at the Bar D Ranch, where a multitude of ages were present to swap stories and fellowship regarding this historic event. 

 

On Sunday October 21, Sunday service and Eucharist was held, and the church was filled to capacity with members old and new. In attendance were previous rectors as well as the Rt. Rev. Dena Harrison, bishop suffragan, who delivered the sermon. The Celebration also included the consecration of a columbarium which is located in the nave of the Church. The children adorned flowers upon the Easter Cross to commemorate those members who were there in spirit. 

 

Afterwards, a luncheon was held in the Parish Hall and included barbecue with all of the trimmings.  The Rev. David Hoster spoke in recognition of the event, acknowledging special guests as well as the past rectors who were in attendance. Mayor Monte Richardson read a proclamation from the City of Bellville which recognized the significance of the event and the importance of St. Mary's as a pivotal asset throughout the history of the City. St. Mary's and its parishoners certainly remember fondly their past while celebrating Christ and their future.

 

- Photos by Jessica Haydahl