HERKIMER CENTENNIAL

SS. ANTHONY AND JOSEPH PARISH in Herkimer just celebrated the 100th anniversary of St. Anthony's parish. Formed in 1917 to serve the city's Italian population, the Catholics who would be parishioners managed to celebrate their first Mass for St. Anthony's on Christmas 1916, before the church was even completed. Nearby St. Francis de Sales parish donated bells for the new church, and St. Anthony's oversaw what was then a mission church, St. Mary's in Frankfort (now part of Our Lady Queen of Apostles parish there). St. Anthony's later merged with St. Joseph's parish, and the current church building was dedicated in 1964. Today, Ss. Anthony and Joseph is known for its welcoming spirit, with family-oriented liturgies, an active music ministry and a group that provides hospitality after funerals.

Pictured are Bishop Edward B. Scharfenberger entering the church with the procession and the Bishop leading the Liturgy of the Eucharist, along with retired priest Rev. Alfred Lamanna and Rev. Quy Vo, pastor. A dinner reception followed the centennial Mass. See more photos in The Evangelist's print edition. (Nate Whitchurch photos)[[In-content Ad]]