Such an eclectic and vibrant worship space that's historical, aesthetically-pleasing,…read morearchitecturally-desirable, which continues to be a healthy & thriving parish that reaches out to the community beyond its parish boundaries!
I've been blessed, humbled, and privileged to get to know this church, its amazing pastoral staff, and its courteous/friendly parishioners alike within the last year - and it has really made a huge impact on my faith journey!
*Backstory: Since I was a wee lad, my family & I had known about this parish during the summers when we'd spend a whole Saturday at Waterworld, and as it got closer to the 4:00 hour, our parents would rush us to change and rinse and shower and get ready to go to the Saturday Vigil Mass at 4:30 p.m., and I remember that it was 'quite alright' to just wear shorts to mass! Well, I was a wee lad, remember?! Lol. (plus Concord summers are generally HOT!) - but hey, what matters is your attendance & active, full-conscious participation though, right?! Ayeeee!!!*
Fast forward to the future - I never thought I'd be able to have a personal relationship with QAS! (physical, emotional, spiritual, and social) - as it has been a pleasure to work alongside their music ministry - a blend of enthusiastic, and industrious voices with one common commitment to assist the worshipping assembly in song of praise. I have been asked to sub several times as an accompanist/liturgical musician for some of their Sunday services within the last year, and I continue to do so - thank you, Mr. Banson! (QAS' current Music Director since early 2022). I have always looked forward to assisting in leading the assembly in sung prayer, and in doing so, it is such a warm & inviting atmosphere as I basked in their breathtaking stained glass windows, intricate altar details, and optimal lighting for capturing the joy of the Eucharist in such a spacious & grand interior. From the very first time I've subbed, the priests/presiders (such as their very enthusiatic & engaging pastor, Fr. Neal), their parish/volunteer staff (s/o to Nancy, Ernesto & Edelyn, Maria, Vincent, Mario & Jackie), I've gotten to know were exceptional, as they offered their helpful, and attentive service to help me prep that made my time there as a sub both smooth & effortless - ensuring a well-run, organized liturgical celebration!
This 2023 is a major year for them, as they celebrate their Sesquicentennial - 150th Anniversary of the Parish, which is historically the beginning of the Roman Catholic faith in all of Concord! Help them celebrate by purchasing commemorative gear, and attending their events that they have planned all year long! If you are looking for a parish to join, they offer many opportunities for returning our gifts of time and talent to God. As stewards of God-given skills and abilities, volunteering in a ministry / organization provides a way to thank God, share our faith, and enhance the community.
Not only this parish is THE place in Concord to go to fulfill your Sunday obligation on Sundays & Holy Days, THIS parish is YOUR source & summit of what you are looking for to be actively involved in parish life!
¡Ad Majorem Deí Gloriam! (A.M.D.G.)