Albany parish marks 100 years of being blessed

According to Rev. John J. Bradley, pastor, a lot has been going on because there is a lot to be grateful for.

"I have spent a half-century as part of this parish," he said. "My first 25 years were spent growing up here; I attended the school. My past 25 years have been here as pastor."

The parish, which began as a mission to St. Francis de Sales Church in West Albany, serves residents in the west end of Albany.

Early dreams

In 1883, he noticed that his congregation was expanding along with the population of Albany. Families were walking across a wooden bridge that spanned the railroad tracks, connecting the two sections of the city.

One of Blessed Sacrament's original parishioners, Nora Quinlan, recorded in the parish's history, published in 1978, her memories about what it was like to go to church at the turn of the century.

"You had to be sure no engines were passing underneath," she warned. "Otherwise, your clothing would be covered with smoke and soot and possibly set on fire by the sparks from the engines."

Earlier Sept. 11

One year later, Bishop Thomas Burke dedicated the completed church building, described as "one of the prettiest of the Diocese."

The original building, a massive Gothic structure built on "the highest point of Central Avenue and the highest point in the city of Albany," still stands.

Growing

* In 1910, stained-glass windows were imported from Germany for the church, and a pipe organ was bought from a demolished church across from the Palace Theatre in downtown Albany.

* In 1916, a grade school was established next to the church, and four Sisters of Mercy began teaching. The religious order remains actively involved in the administration of the school and parish offices.

* In 1952, the parish expanded the church because of post-World War II growth. A temporary back wall was removed, extending the sanctuary. The addition of two chapels on either side of the main altar was completed as well.

* In 1964, the parish built a new school; 247 students now attend pre-K through the eighth grade.

More to come

Another building restoration has been completed; it included repairing the roof, stone and windows, as well as interior repainting, new flooring and carpeting, and refinished pews. The pipe organ has been renovated, and the lighting and sound system was enhanced.

On Sept. 29, Bishop Howard J. Hubbard celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving for 100 years of parish life. On Dec. 19, a 10:30 a.m. closing Mass of the Centennial Year will be celebrated.

"All of our parishioners, both past and present, as well as the public are invited to share in our joy as we celebrate 100 years as a parish," said Father Bradley. "Everyone is welcome."

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