I usually try to avoid public comment and debate on such things as politics and religion. Oftentimes it never ends well for either side. All one needs to do is scan the comments section of any article, blog or essay and you’ll find an array of strong opinions for either side of the debate. (There can be some very nasty people out there, aka trolls!) Don’t get me wrong, debate is fine as long as we respect each other’s opinion and I’ll leave it at that as this is not an ethics blog! I’m more of a “live and let live” type person. Sad, though, that I had to think twice before I decided to create a blog about the Immaculate Conception Church in Hr. Grace because sooner or later someone would be up in arms about what the closing of the church means or doesn’t mean to them and the community. But you know what? Shag it! I know what that particular church has meant to me over the years and I’ve had the opportunity over the last few years to photograph it, and it is one of the most beautiful structures around. Yes, it’s fallen into disrepair but I’m sure with the vision and guidance of the new owners it will be turned into the magnificent jewel it once was.
I remember attending many events at that church over the years. Everything from my First Holy Communion in 1982 to Gary and Sharmane’s wedding in 1988 and more recently when Katelyn made her confirmation in 2013. These were just a few of the many highlights. But things change which brings us to today, or more specifically, last Sunday where a large crowd gathered one last time in the old building in it’s current form. Unfortunately I was not there to take part in the celebration but from what I’ve seen and heard it looked like a fabulous send off! So I thought what better time to post a few snaps of the church. I had squirreled away these photos over the years, only posting a scattered one here and there. But the time has come to dust them off, lol! I hope you enjoy.
Flashback to May 12, 1982 when I made my First Holy Communion. I was so proud to wear the little white dress and veil that Mom made for me. I still have it tucked away in my closet, no joke! I keep one foot in the past while moving ahead into the future. It’s special times like these that we will remember and cherish regardless what formation the church takes on in the years ahead.
Until Next Time!
Andrea
Beautiful. Some nice little girl.
Andrea you have an amazing eye for detail and a wonderful way with words. I really enjoy your blogs. I am of 2 minds about the cathedral. Such a beautiful fixture in the community and so sad to see what has happened to it but it is wonderful that someone has taken the interest in it. It will be interesting to see the transformation.
Thank you Deanna! I fully agree with what you said about the church. Im also looking forward to what it will become.
As always your snaps are amazing….keep on blogging!
Wow absolutely wow!
Andrea, your pictures are absolutely breathtaking! You certainly do have an eye for detail, they are beautiful.
Beautiful pictures as usual, Andrea. Beautiful blog also, you have a way with words.
Andrea your pictures are beautiful,what a great memory of the church and that picture of you and Mosgineaur O’Brein,that a great picture he was one that everybody loved.
Thanks.so much for.sharing.. so.many memories from.childhood and throughout the years. Especsilly ainging in the choir and singing at the closing mass Dec 7 2014 .. which was a blessing ..
Your photos are magnificent and captures.the very essence of peace and tranquility ..
Yes Charmaine and I had the pleasure of playing for that last Mass along with you That was the real closing for sure My grandfather put the first towers on the church
Absolutely beautiful pictures. Thank you so much for sharing them.
So beautiful and Holy. What will happen to the Holy Statues. Esp The Peta and The Holy Infant Jesus of Prague. I cannot believe this Holy Consecrated Church will be turned into a brewery. Is this allowed to happen? I heard this news on NTV. So sad.
Meanwhile all these Statues are so beautiful and Holy. I love all your pictures. I have them saved on my phone. I live on the Avalon and just outside St.John’s so I do not know the whole story of your Beautiful Church.
These pictures are absolutely beautiful…
Awesome pictures.
So may details of the cathedral I had forgotten.
From the few times I have heard they repurposed older churches they kept the overall design of the building. Hopefully they will do that and bring some of the good business to Hr Grace.
Great Snaps…Great Blog
Beautiful pictures Andrea.
Oh my god. Andrea. You should not be behind a counter. You should be out there taking more of those beautiful pictures and selling them. Love it
Beautiful set of photos. Well done!
Many memories of this church.Beautiful pictures.
Beautiful picture and a wonderful Blog, Andrea!!
Your photos are spectacular as always Andrea !!!!
A most amazing and magnificent structure for sure
Beautiful as always , Andrea ! A lot of memories there for sure ! Too bad we lost this beautiful church but we will never lose our beautiful memories !