Immaculate Conception (Diocese of Harrisburg, Berwick)
Immaculate Conception is in Pennsylvania (United States) and is part of the Diocese of Harrisburg.
It is dedicated to Immaculate Conception.
| Immaculate Conception | |
| Dedication: | Immaculate Conception |
| Venerated Saints: | |
| Diocese: | Diocese of Harrisburg |
| Deanery: | Columbia Montour Deanery |
| Address: | 1730 Fowler Ave, Berwick, PA 18603 |
| Coordinates: | 41.0600, -76.2310 |
| City: | Berwick, PA |
| Subdivision: | Pennsylvania |
| Country: | United States |
| County: | Columbia County |
| Website: | http://www.stmarysberwick.com/ |
| Founded: | 1906 |
| School: | No |
| Email: | ImmaculateConceptionBVMParishBerwick@hbgdiocese.org |
History
The Immaculate Conception Parish, often referred to as St. Mary's, in Berwick, Pennsylvania, was established in 1906. It began as a mission church of St. Columba's, serving a small group of 42 parishioners. The first church was built in 1902 and completed in January 1903, but it was destroyed by fire in 1915. After the fire, a new church was constructed at the same location on Mulberry Street, completed in 1917.[1]
The parish grew significantly over the years, reflecting the industrial expansion and immigration waves in Berwick, particularly from Central, Southern, and Eastern Europe. This growth led to the establishment of a parochial school in 1954, which operated until 1987. In 1975, a decision was made to relocate the church to a new site on Fowler Avenue due to space constraints and the need for modern facilities. This move included building a new church, rectory, and parish center, all of which are still in use today on the 13-acre plot.[2]
Immaculate Conception has been known for its community involvement, including various ministries and outreach programs. The parish supports social concerns, ecumenism, and interfaith activities, demonstrating a commitment to both spiritual and social welfare. Notable efforts include the Berwick Area Ministerium, which promotes inter-church cooperation, and various advocacy programs for housing, employment, and against discrimination.[3]
The parish celebrated its centennial in 2006, marking a century of faith and service in Berwick. Today, Immaculate Conception continues to be a cornerstone of the Catholic community, offering regular services, sacraments, and community engagement opportunities.[4]
Related parishes
- St. Joseph, Berwick, PA
- St. Cyril and Methodius, Berwick, PA
References
- ↑ "Immaculate Conception - Berwick". https://www.hbgdiocese.org/parishes/immaculate-conception-berwick/.
- ↑ "About - Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary". http://www.stmarysberwick.com/about.
- ↑ "Ministries - Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary". http://www.stmarysberwick.com/ministries.
- ↑ "Immaculate Conception". https://discovermass.com/church/immaculate-conception-berwick-pa.