|
The Farewell Mass of Thanksgiving at St. Mark Church was celebrated on Sunday, October 30, by Bishop Thomas J. Paprocki and was attended by a standing-room-only crowd. Concelebrating the Mass was Fr. Jeffry Holtman O.F.S., pastor of the St. Mary and St. Mark Parish and Holy Family Parish in Granite City. Also participating was Deacon Neil Suermann. A reception was held following the Mass in the Church basement where the bishop posed for photos and spoke to those attending. St. Mark Parish was combined with the St. Mary Parish in 2002. The two parishes' schools were combined in 1969. The St. Mark Parish was incorporated on September 20, 1871, and celebrated it's 145th year this year. ) Bishop Thomas Paprocki leads a group of servers into the church. ) The Procession to the Altar. ) Fr. Jeffry Holtman and Bishop Paprocki during the processional. ) Deacon Neil Suermann, Bishop Paprocki and Fr. Jeffry Holtman lead a prayer.  A Reading is read by Jo Ann Barnett.  Bishop Paprocki gives the Homily.  The Gifts are brought to the Altar by Josephine Richardson and Ed and Marie Gray.  Bishop Paprocki uses incense to bless the wine and hosts.  St. Mary's Choir performs during communion.  Father Jeff addresses the congregation. ) The congregation attending the last Mass.  The final blessing is given by Bishop Paprocki.  Bishop Paprocki blesses the faithful as he leaves the church. |
