By TERRY PUGH
The second-oldest Roman Catholic parish in Saskatchewan celebrated a landmark anniversary on June 6.
The Blessed Sacrament Parish in Duck Lake marked 150 years since its founding in 1876 by Father Alexis Andre with a celebratory mass in the 115-year-old church, a special outdoor service in the town square and an evening of reflection on the central role the church has played in the history of the community.
Father Roger Paponette, originally from Trinidad, has served as parish priest for the past two years. He said the many months parishioners have spent planning the event helped him truly understand and appreciate the history, character and spirit of the people of the area.
“I learned how hard people worked and persevered in the face of many hardships over the decades,” said Paponette. “Their resilience was based on faith, family and community; and that same spirit still resounds today. It’s truly an honour to be part of this.”
The event featured a number of clergy with close family ties to the parish, including Monseigneur Maurice Fiolleau and Father Andre Boyer. A slide show outlining the history of the parish that included anecdotes and photos of families with deep roots in the community proved to be a highlight of the evening.
Duck Lake Mayor Jason Anderson said the parish is intimately linked with the history of the town and surrounding area.
“The church has stood through generations of change as a gathering place, a place of comfort and a place where families share the most important moments of their lives,” said Anderson, adding the parish continues to shape the community “through service, compassion and commitment to caring for one another.”
Carlton Trail-Eagle Creek Member of Parliament Kelly Block, who represents the area, said the 150th anniversary is a milestone that acknowledges and honours the faith that has been passed down from generation to generation.
“Since its founding the parish has been a pivotal centre for both faith and community,” she said. “Your rich history reflects the enduring faith, sacrifice and commitment of the clergy religious and lay faithful who have built and sustained this vibrant community.
“As you commemorate 150 years of blessings it is fitting to honour those who went before; the pioneers whose vision, perseverance and devotion laid the foundations on which your parish continues to flourish today. Their sacrifice and legacy lives on in the faith-filled community that continues to gather here.”