New parish schedules upcoming Mass times

A "Liturgy of Leave-Taking" last weekend marked the beginning of the merger of Sacred Heart in Philmont and Holy Cross in West Taghkanic into St. John Vianney parish.

Rev. Raymond Ethier said, "Our church buildings are like part of the family. Many sacred moments were shared in these beautiful worship spaces over the years. It is so very hard to let go when we have such powerful memories."

The first Mass of the new parish will be celebrated on August 7, noon, at a unique location: St. Thomas Evangelical Lutheran Church in Churchtown. After the Mass, parishioners will join with Lutheran congregants at a barbecue.

The St. John Vianney parishioners will eventually move to a new Catholic church, which is being built in Claverack. Until then, the existing buildings will be used in various ways; for example, weddings, funerals and weekday liturgies will be held at the Philmont and West Taghkanic churches.

Beginning August 13, weekend Masses at St. Thomas will be celebrated at 5 p.m. on Saturdays, and at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Sundays.

On August 28, Bishop Howard J. Hubbard will celebrate the 11 a.m. liturgy.

(For information about the new parish, call 672-7185.)

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