Photo Don Cascone. Visitors arriving at St. Thomas More Catholic Church’s 40th Anniversary.
Photo Don Cascone. BBQ at St. Thomas More Catholic Church’s 40th Anniversary.
On June 24th of this year, everyone was invited to celebrate the 40th anniversary of St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Millbrook. The planning for this event took place months prior as volunteers reached out to former parishioners and clergy as well as the larger community of Millbrook and beyond through newspaper ads, flyers and posters and invitations both mailed out and personally delivered. The all-inclusive celebration featured games for children and a barbecue.
The Parish Priest, Father Craig, adjusted the usual 9am Mass to 10am to accommodate the events and to make it easier for travelers to participate. The church was full and many came from away to renew old acquaintances. Previous clergy were also in attendance and the congregation was happy to meet and relive experiences. After the Mass, everyone came outside to enjoy the events that had been arranged as well as a great barbecue.
Children’s games for various age ranges and skills were set up along with a face- painting table and everyone won a prize. The highlight was when Father Craig volunteered first into the dunk tank; he was a good sport and the children yelled with delight when he went into the frigid water. Although the celebration was free, the event raised $229 as well as many bags of food were collected for Millbrook Food Share.
Bishop Miehm from the Diocese of Peterborough, as well as other clergy, Catholic and otherwise, also dropped by to enjoy the festivities. Almost one hundred people enjoyed the delicious barbecue arranged and served by dedicated volunteers of the church. Fortunately, the rain held off until a large anniversary cake was cut at the conclusion of the commemoration.
Thanks to the team coordinators and volunteers, it was a wonderful day for all who participated and offered a great opportunity to give thanks to the larger community of Millbrook and beyond. The people of St. Thomas More Parish look forward to serving the community for another 40 years and invite anyone to check them out at www.stthomasmillbrook.ca or, better yet, by joining them on Sunday morning at 9 am at 25 King Street West
