It was my great pleasure to represent the City of Holyoke yesterday at the Dedication Mass of the new Immaculate Conception Parish in the Flats. This Parish has been through alot of transition and turmoil over the last 6 years, but the good news is: it all paid off in the end. What a beautiful new church and the inspiring words of both Bishop McDonnell and Father Jim electrified all in attendance. The church was packed (and even flowing out the doors)! With so much enthusiasm in that room, it bodes well for the growth and progress of the Flats section of our city.
The Mass was held in the historic three languages of the Parish: French, Spanish and English. It displayed the great unity and history of our city. As a Catholic myself, I had never seen a church dedication ceremony and it was a very interesting and beautiful ritual. Holyoke is very lucky to have so many beautiful houses of worship of many faiths and if you visit Immaculate Conception you will absolutely enjoy the ornate stain glass mosaic of the Parish's history and the city's history with Jesus Christ at the center. It is located behind the altar.
After the Mass, a delicious meal was served by the Fernandez family restaurant at an outdoor reception. Everyone enjoyed the wonderful weather while sharing time together and talking about their Faith in the Church and their Faith in the future of Holyoke. I am glad I had the opportunity along with Councilors Welch and Pluta to participate in this special event.
My hats off to the Bishop, the Parish Building Committee and to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish which generously donated $1 million to make the new Church possible.
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