Parishioners fulfill founders' motto: 'Watch us grow'

The first Mass at St. John's was celebrated on October 2, 1932.

Over the following years, the parishioners of St. John's have embraced the motto chosen by their founders: "Watch us grow":

* In less than a year, parishioners raised enough money to build a church; on May 25, 1933, Bishop Gibbons dedicated it.

* Within a short time, mission churches were established for summer vacationers at Crystal Lake, Rensselaerville and Gayhead, and later in Oak Hill and Earlton.

* In 1956, a new parish hall was constructed to accommodate the growing overflow of summer worshippers who had previously been forced to stand outside for Masses. The hall also provided an opportunity for youths to gather for religious events, socializing and sports.

* The present church, dedicated in 1967, can hold approximately 750 worshippers.

In addition to his duties as pastor of St. Theresa of the Child Jesus parish in Windham, Rev. James Schiffer, CP, is pastor of St. John's.

"This is a great, growing and active community," he said. "Parishioners are warm and friendly, and they are great at encouraging each other to come forward and participate in active ministry.

"There are a number of stable, long-established families that form the parishioner base, but we are enjoying a growing number of young families who are enthusiastic about active participation in parish life. It's a strong, vibrant parish."

(8/9/07)