RAYMOND — On Saturday, May 1, Bishop Joseph Latino commended Immaculate Conception parishioners on their 125 years as a parish.
“You are not just commemorating the past but celebrating the future. You have not only survived but thrived here in Raymond,” he said.
“And you are celebrating a faith that goes far beyond 125 years. You are celebrating a faith that is over 2,000 years old,” he said. “
He encouraged parishioners to continue sharing their faith with others.
Freely sharing their faith, according to Norbertine Father Richard Chiles, priest-in-charge of Immaculate Conception, is a quality in great evidence among parishioners at the small mission church.
“Immaculate Conception is one of the most welcoming communities I have ever been in,” Father Chiles said. “The people are very hospitable, they really want people to feel comfortable when they come here. They help them to fit right in. I love it here.”
Loraine Elmerick, a parishioner for 31 years, said “everyone is very friendly. Everybody knows everybody else and that goes for the community too and the other churches here.”
Parishioners said the anniversary celebration was a big success. “It was great,” said Ed Nalker, another 30-year parishioner.
“It was a lot of work. We have about 35 families so it took everybody working together to bring it all off.”
Sandi Munden said the parish is small, but close. “We love Immaculate Conception. We have a lot of traditions. On the first Sunday of each month we bring a dish and gather to eat and socialize after Mass. It gives us a real homey feeling.
“If you need anything all you have to do is call and someone will come and help you,” said Munden.
