# Celebrating a Century of Faith: Our Grindrod Parish Centennial

- Link: https://nweparchy.ca/2024/07/celebrating-a-century-of-faith-our-grindrod-parish-centennial/
- Published: 2024-07-04T17:47:18-07:00
- Author: Website

![](https://nweparchy.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/shared-image-kopiya-1024x871.
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Our parish recently marked a historic milestone: 100 years of faith, service, and
community. This centennial celebration was a testament to our enduring legacy, drawing
visiting pilgrims, clergy, Sisters and our Bishop Michael, making it an unforgettable
event.

**A Warm Welcome to Visiting Pilgrims**

The festivities began on Friday afternoon with a heartfelt welcome to the pilgrims
who traveled from near and far to join us in this joyous occasion. Their presence
was a testament to the strong bonds of faith that extend beyond our local community.
The pilgrims participated in various activities, including prayer services, a special
candlelight vigil, and a procession to the cemetery where Bishop Michael led us 
in a Panakhyda service for all deceased founders and benefactors, creating an atmosphere
of spiritual unity and shared devotion.

**Honoring Our Legacy with Visiting Clergy and Sisters**

The centennial celebration was graced by Sisters and numerous visiting clergy, including
former pastors who have been integral to our parish's journey. Their participation
added a profound sense of continuity and respect for the rich history of our parish.

**A Blessing from the Bishop**

The presence of our Bishop Michael was a significant highlight of the centennial
celebrations. His participation underscored the importance of our parish within 
the community. On Saturday, Kyr Michael led a solemn and uplifting centennial Hierarchical
Divine Liturgy, his words inspired us to continue our mission with renewed vigor
and dedication. He also elevated Fr. Joseph Ostopowich to the rank of Archpriest
and recognized him for his 40 years of service in our Eparchy. Fr. Andriy Werbowy
presented the history of Grindrod parish and how it started with just a few families
from Manitoba.

**Joyous Festivities and Community Spirit**

The Friday/Saturday celebration included a family fun day complete with games, food,
bonfire with songs and entertainment, which brought joy to parishioners young and
old. The pig spit roast dinner provided an opportunity for reflection and fellowship.

**Looking to the Future**

As we celebrated our centennial, we also looked to the future with hope and faith.
The centennial celebration was not just a reflection on the past but a recommitment
to our mission and values. With the blessings of our Bishop, the support of visiting
clergy, and the enthusiasm of our pilgrims and parishioners, we are poised to continue
our journey of faith, service, and community for the next hundred years.

Our centennial celebration was a resounding success, a fitting tribute to our rich
history, and a hopeful look toward a bright future. We are deeply grateful to everyone
who joined us, and we look forward to many more years of worship, service, and fellowship.

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