Holy Family Area parishes mark 3rd anniversary

The 3rd annual Area Mass for the Holy Family Area Catholic Community was celebrated on Sunday, January 29, at MACCRAY High School in Clara City.

At this Mass the parishes of St. Andrew (Granite Falls), St. Clara (Clara City), and St. Joseph (Montevideo) celebrated their official name as the "Holy Family Area Catholic Community" as well as blessing of their mission statement. Thirty-six 10th graders from the three parishes were also enrolled as candidates in the Confirmation process and received a bible donated by area Knights of Columbus representatives.

Following the Mass the group socialized over a soup and croissant lunch in the school cafeteria.

The three Catholic parishes have been collaborating and sharing staff in various ways over the past years, and this collaborative effort was officially recognized by the diocese of New Ulm when the parishes became one Holy Family Area Catholic Community with each parish maintaining its own identity.

Bishop John C. Nienstedt was presided at the first Area Mass held in Granite Falls. In January 2004 with over 700 in attendance.

Leadership in the three parishes is provided by Fr. Jim Devorak, pastor of St. Andrew and St. Joseph, Sr. Carole Freking OSF, pastoral administrator of St. Clara, and Sr. Mary Weidner OSB, pastoral associate residing in Granite Falls.