Archdiocese’s ‘Season of Blessings’ concludes with May 14 grand finale

CatholicAnchor.org
The yearlong festivities marking the 50th anniversary of the Archdiocese of Anchorage will culminate with a Mass and celebration next month. Archbishop Roger Schwietz has extended an invitation to Alaskans to join the grand finale.

“The 50th anniversary commemoration of the establishment of our Archdiocese of Anchorage is gradually winding down,” he said, noting that the final event will also include the public presentation of a new book, “Faith in the Far North,” that chronicles the history of the archdiocese. The book will be available for purchase at the event.

The grand finale will take place on May 14 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Co-Cathedral in Anchorage with a multi-cultural Mass, followed by a picnic. The event will also mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Catholic Social Services — the social outreach arm of the church.

Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. The picnic will go until 4 p.m., both in the Lunney Center and outdoors, weather permitting. Hamburgers and hot dogs will be provided on the grill, and everyone is asked to bring a dish to share, potluck style. There will be activities for children including a bouncy house, face painting and balloons. Entertainment will be provided by various musicians, choirs and cultural groups.

Plenty of history will be on display at the May 14 gathering, including parish histories and artifacts from Saint Pope John Paul II’s visit to Alaska. The event brings to a close the “Season of Blessing,” which has also included marking Anchorage Archbishop Roger Schwietz’s 25th year as a bishop and the 100th anniversary of Holy Family Cathedral.

“All are invited to participate, so please mark your calendars and watch for further details,” Archbishop Schwietz said.

Those interested in participating in the music may contact Kevin Barnett at 227-1044.