St. Mary Mediatrix of All Graces Celebrates 150 years

August 19, 2025

By Stephanie Geraghty

St. Mary Mediatrix of All Graces Catholic Church in Avoca celebrated their 150th anniversary on Sunday, August 17, 2025, with a 10AM Mass.  Bishop William Joensen was the presiding clergy and three other priests were concelebrants, including Fr. Seth Owusu, Fr. Tom Dooley, and Fr. John Frost. Retired priest Fr. Paul Monahan also attended the Mass.

"What a joy to be able to celebrate with past pastors, concelebrating Mass with the bishop," said Parish priest, Fr. Seth.

There were approximately 130 people in attendance to celebrate Mass.

"The 150th celebration at St. Mary's was beautiful. We had many past and present parishioners in attendance as well as guests join us for our special day," said planning committee member, Chantelle Harre.

The Knights of Columbus provided an Honor Guard, comprised of 20 members. They traveled from various councils and wore formal dress uniforms, including ceremonial gloves and swords. There was also a choir of nine vocalists and one pianist.

Everyone enjoyed a meal together afterwards in the Parish Hall. The planning committee presented a photographic history slideshow, highlighting parishioners and events spanning the years.

"St Mary's Parishioners shared their photos and memories to make the slideshow and I couldn't have been happier with how it turned out," said Linda Hansen, planning committee chair. "It was a wonderful trip down St. Mary's memory lane. We are so blessed to have so many people who helped make our celebration a success."

The event also featured a silent auction, custom wooden ornaments, t-shirts, and special priest stoles.

Harre also expressed her overall joy and satisfaction with the celebration.

"The 150th committee, led by Linda, worked very hard for over a year planning and organizing to make this milestone memorable," she said. "I feel that was accomplished in every way and no detail was missed."

Father Seth was proud and appreciative of their efforts. 

"It was a fantastic celebration and first thanking God who made it all possible. The planning committee deserves a great applause for their time and sacrifices," said Fr. Seth.

He also feels Bishop Joensen's homily will inspire parishioners to continue to be active in the church for years to come.

"Highlighting on the bishop's message of "being on fire," we all must make it a point to be aflame to set this new fire ablaze for the Lord and his church," Fr. Seth said.