MUSCATINE COUNTY IOWA HISTORY

Pg 172

St. Mary’s Catholic Church 1943-1976

Transcribed by Lynn McCleary, April 18, 2015

     Under the pastorate of Rev. Edward O’Hair, the years 1953 to 1958 were busy ones. In 1950 the leaning walls of the church were tied together with steel rods and a tile ceiling installed. The sanctuary was remodeled with a beautiful oak crucifix and alter. Terrazzo floor, oak pews and altar railing completed the interior.

    Early 1953 the Rectory was gutted by fire. A new brick structure was built on the old foundation. Fr. O’Hair was given the use of the Nicolaus cottage while the rectory was built.

    1958-1968 Rev. Vincent J. Morrissey became pastor. With the effort of many parishioners a brick Parish Hall was built and dedicated in 1961. It serves as an educational and meeting center. (A crucifix, displayed in the hall, was made and donated by Nyle Wegener, a parishioner.)

    1966 the ceiling of the church was lowered and the Mass Altar (made from the existing altar railing) faced the congregation.

    In 1968 for 6 months, Rev. Henry Geers became pastor. He was followed by Rev. John Kennedy, a kindly man who was forced into retirement in 1974 due to ill health.

    Rev. William V. Snell became pastor in 1974. In 1975 a new furnace and air conditioning were installed in the church.

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This page sponsored in memory of George Grunder by his parents and brothers, Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Gunder and sons.