|
In two formerly isolated communities, Fidelity and the Village of Galena Park, there were many African American families who migrated from Louisiana. Among these were many Catholic families, some of whom had been out of contact with the church. The nearest parish serving African American catholics was miles away and there was little available transportation These stalwart Christians held fast to the faith as they prayed and waited patiently for a parish of their own.
Memories are filled with laughter as each of us recalls the days of assisting at Mass in what was then the Clinton Park Theater. The less than reverend surroundings pushed the pastor and people to work for a better setting.
It was necessary to start a fund raising plan. The pastor or Our Mother of Mercy parish requested that a census be taken in order to know how many families resided in the community. Such a census, taken by two ladies of the parish, revealed that there were enough families to support a mission, The facts revealed that many adult Catholics had not received the sacraments and had no religious instructional In 1951, the decision to begin the erection of a church was enthusiastically received by the people.
The mission family grew from the original communities of Fidelity, Galena Park Village and Clinton Park with the addition of the communities of Pleasentville, Galena Manor and Clinton View. The church was completed and dedicated on January 13, 1952. The mission received full status in 1957
The parish has been blessed with the services of many Josephite priests. There are cherished memories of their giving of themselves to the spiritual needs of the people as well as to community and civic affairs.
If it could be done respectfully and legally, we did it. There were teas, basket auctions (real fun), parades, queen contests, raffles, concerts, musicals, talent shows, house parties, suppers, dances, bazaars,(even in back yards), and lawn socials. The money was badly needed
Catechism was taught under trees, in facilities loaned to us by the Galena Park I.S.D., in homes and wherever space was available. The first CCD classes evolved, certificates were designed by the director and graduation exercises were held. The children of Mary, the Altar Servers Organizations were formed to further keep children in touch with their faith through both worship and service. Unique and rewarding programs held these groups together, Sports of many varieties were played and championship teams were found in all ages. Adults gave willingly of their them to make these things realities.
Adults organized the Altar society, the Legion of Mary, the Holy Name Society and the Blessed Virgin Mary Sodality, the Choir and the ushers. The organizations were friendly and warm and a feeling of family unity existed. The choir provided the music that made the Masses and other services spiritually uplifting. At several points, the choir was made up of members of an entire family who sang for the pleasure and joy of singing. Volunteers kept the grounds in order and the church neat and clean. Those who felt the need to render service did so, including the Holy Family Sisters, the Immaculate sisters from St. Elizabeth Hospital and the Sisters of Our lady of Fatima.
|
|
