Centennial Celebration of St. Benedict Parish Center Held in Benedicta

BENEDICTA---Parishioners and community members in Benedicta gathered together to participate in a different centennial celebration of sorts, as a building that has hosted a parish school, faith formation classes, and countless other special events over the past century turned 100.

A family day was held on July 9 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of St. Benedict Parish Center, a building which housed St. Benedict’s School for grades 1-12 from 1923 to 1967 and has since played a key role in parish life.

“It was a wonderful celebration,” said Fr. Dominic Savio, HGN, administrator of St. Benedict Parish. “We had a special morning Mass followed by a barbecue lunch and family picnic hosted by the Knights of Columbus. It was a day of sharing memories and creating them.”

During the 44 years the school operated, students were taught by Sisters of Mercy and a small number of lay teachers. The curriculum was a traditional academic one with business courses being added and Latin always the second language taught. Students also received religious instruction, attended Mass weekly, and went to confession. Since the closure of the school, the building has served as a gathering place for community events and celebrations. With its kitchen, hall, and stage, the parish center has been the site of 4th of July meals, St. Patrick’s Day shows, bazaars, benefit dinners, wedding receptions, anniversary parties, funeral luncheons, summer Bible school classes, family reunions, and more.