St. Mary's Parish, located in the heart of London, has a rich history that spans over a century. Founded in 1902, the parish has been a cornerstone of the community, providing spiritual guidance, social support, and a sense of belonging to generations of parishioners.

Early Years

The origins of St. Mary's Parish can be traced back to the early 1900s when a small group of Catholic families recognized the need for a local place of worship. With the support of the diocese, they established a modest wooden chapel on donated land. The first Mass was celebrated by Father James O'Reilly, the founding pastor, on June 14, 1902. Despite limited resources, the early parish community was driven by a strong faith and commitment to building a permanent church.

Growth and Development

As the city grew, so did the parish. By 1920, the original chapel could no longer accommodate the increasing number of worshippers. Under the leadership of Father Michael Donovan, the community embarked on an ambitious project to construct a larger, more permanent church building. Through fundraising efforts and the generosity of parishioners, the new St. Mary's Church was completed in 1925. The beautiful brick structure, with its distinctive Gothic architecture and stained glass windows, became a landmark in the city.