PARISH HISTORY
Embark on a Heartwarming Journey through the History of Holy Redeemer Parish
Nestled in the serene Minnow Lake region, a cherished part of Sudbury, Holy Redeemer Parish warmly invites you to explore its rich history and vibrant community.
First, we would like to acknowledge that Holy Redeemer Catholic Church is built on the traditional territory of the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek First Nation. We hold deep respect for their culture and spirituality as the original inhabitants of this land. We are committed to understanding their history and the impact of colonization, working towards reconciliation and healing.
Our story begins before 1949 when our spiritual home was the bilingual embrace of All Saints Parish, a beloved church that served the community from 1938 to 2007.
In July 1949, a new chapter was penned under the visionary guidance of Bishop R. D. Dignan. Holy Redeemer Parish emerged, dedicated to our English-speaking Catholic community, while All Saints continued to embrace our French-speaking brothers and sisters. The maestro of this transformation was Father Raymond Fitzgerald C.Ss.R., who graced us with his presence on August 23, 1949, becoming our founding pastor.
During our inaugural year, Father Fitzgerald called the Sisters of the Good Shepherd convent his home, where he hosted two Sunday masses at All Saints Church for our English-speaking faithful. Father Omer St. Pierre, All Saints' shepherd at the time, radiated kindness and cooperation. We must also honor the Sisters of the Good Shepherd, Sudbury's unsung heroes of charity until their farewell in 1965. Their legacy remains etched in our hearts.
Indigenous art on dedicated wall at Holy Redeemer
All Saints Church in 2007
Our first mission as a parish was to find the perfect location for our church. The corner of Bellevue Ave. and Bancroft Drive emerged as the heart of our community. On March 19, 1950, the present site became ours, thanks to the generosity of the late George Delongshamps, a man who raised a dozen children on this land and sold it with one heartfelt condition - "Build a church." Holy Redeemer cherishes his faith and goodwill.
The construction of Holy Redeemer Church commenced on May 1, 1950, with the craftsmanship of Hill-Clark-Francis Construction, drawing inspiration from the Church of the Good Shepherd in Espanola. The grand opening finally arrived on November 21, 1950, as Bishop Dignan joyfully inaugurated Holy Redeemer Church for worship.
Following the church's completion, we embarked on the expansion of the rectory, led by Father Gregory Murphy. The project began in May 1961 and concluded with a celebratory open house on November 9, 1961. In 1964, Father James Farrell C.Ss.R. spearheaded a remarkable makeover of the parish hall, complete with new floors, stylish wall paneling, a modern public address system, and a kitchen upgrade any chef would be proud of.
In the early days of our parish, the Holy Name Society played a pivotal role. Mr. Edward Vaillancourt, the society's first president, alongside Fathers Fitzgerald,
Original Holy Redeemer built in 1950
Conlogue, and O'Brien C.Ss.R., led grand initiatives, including the introduction of bingo at Saint Paul's School, later moving it to St. Anne’s Hall downtown, where it thrived until the late '60s.
As our parish blossomed, we realized the need for a new home. On June 18, 1995, a lively sod-turning ceremony marked the start of Holy Redeemer's new chapter at the corner of Bancroft and Second Avenue. This land, once home to the Sisters of the Good Shepherd convent, held many tales, from a Boys Home to the Catholic Center. The grand unveiling of our new church took place on June 16, 1996. The church, designed by Perry Architect Inc., pays homage to our northern heritage.
Fast forward to July 31, 2012, when the parish returned to the care of Bishop J. L Plouffe. We bid a heartfelt farewell on June 14, 2012, at the Caruso Club, a fitting tribute to the Redemptorist Community for their years of dedicated service.
Apostolic Blessing in 2000
Over the years, Holy Redeemer Catholic Church has been renovated and updated to meet the needs of our congregation, remaining a vibrant and active part of the Sudbury Minnow Lake community. In addition to our regular mass and worship services, we offer a variety of programs and activities for parishioners of all ages, including prayer groups, bible study groups, Food Bank, CWL, KofC and volunteer opportunities.
Today, Holy Redeemer Catholic Church continues to serve as a spiritual home for Catholics in Sudbury Minnow Lake and the surrounding area, providing a welcoming and supportive community for all who seek it. Under the loving guidance of our Diocese of Sault Ste. Marie and our Pastor, Father Sam D’Angelo, Holy Redeemer Parish thrives as a vibrant and engaging community, deeply rooted in the values of faith, hope, and love.
Holy Redeemer Sudbury
Join us on this heartwarming journey of faith, community, and love at Holy Redeemer Parish! 🌟🙏
