On Saturday, 26 September, the Parish of St Bridget and Blessed Hemming in Turku celebrated its 100th anniversary. The solemn Mass was celebrated under the leadership of Bishop Raimo Goyarrola at the nearby Lutheran St Michael’s Church. Afterwards, the congregation moved to the Radisson Blu Marina Palace for the anniversary programme and a festive lunch.
More than 600 people attended the Mass, and over 400 guests gathered for the anniversary celebration. People of all ages, from the very young to the elderly, joined in the festivities. The hotel’s large banquet hall was filled with cheerful conversation, and the joy of the occasion was palpable.
Father Stanislaw Zawilowicz S.C.I. opened the celebration by thanking all the parishioners who had taken responsibility for the arrangements. He also conveyed warm greetings from Father Peter Gebara S.C.I. to those gathered.
The celebration included speeches and musical performances, as well as memories of the parish’s history over the decades. Ecumenical guests from the Lutheran and Orthodox Churches were also present. Pasi Jaakkola, pastor at the Lutheran Mikael Parish, and Orthodox Archbishop Elia extended their warm congratulations to the Catholic community in Turku.
Bishop Raimo encouraged everyone present to pray for the local Church and to dream of and build the Church of tomorrow, placing their trust in Jesus Christ.
Fides