Our Heritage

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OUR HERITAGE

The Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin began in the late 1800s. At first, the parish was the faithful gathering to celebrate Mass. With the growth of the parish community came the need for a church and school.

This became a place for us to celebrate our traditions, beliefs, Catholic education, and values that we hold dear.

As we pledge to "Building for the Future", we keep the faith and hope alive for all who prayed and believed before us.

**Timeline**
1872 Mass is celebrated in Washington Hall above Deneen's General Store at 220 South Knowles Avenue in New Richmond. 1880 Parcel of land is obtained. 1883 Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin is incorporated. 1885 First church is built. 1889 Christmas Mass is celebrated in new church. 1890 St. Mary's School is built. 1892 Church destroyed by fire. 1894 First Graduating Class from St. Mary's School 1896 First records of Altar Society 1928 Sisters of St. Joseph of Nazareth on the Lake from Superior join the school staff. 1950 Religious Education Program begins. 1951 Lay Carmelites begin. 1953 Present school building built. 1963 Conference of Christian Doctrine (CCD). 1966 Break ground for present church building. 1970 Severe thunderstorm destroys rectory. 1971 Baptism is celebrated during Mass. 1977 Knights of Columbus and families remodel convent. 1981 Last payment on church mortgage. 1990 Renew Program implemented. 1998 Long Range Planning Committee formed. 2000 Capital Campaign Committees formed.