St. Nicholas Parish to celebrate its sesquicentennial milestone

St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Elko New Market is celebrating its sesquicentennial in 2008. Two major anniversary events will be part of the 150-year celebration.

At 10 a.m. Sunday, April 27, an outdoor Mass will be held to commemorate the first Catholic Mass celebrated in New Market Township, which occurred in April 1858.

The Mass will take place at the Chlan family farm located at 26071 Xerxes Avenue in Elko New Market. This farm was the site of the first Mass when Rev. George Keller (1823-1897) traveled to the Martin and Elizabeth Eischen home to say Mass for the early pioneer settlers.

Due to limited parking, guests are asked to park at St. Nicholas Church. Between 9 and 9:50 a.m., bus transportation will be provided to the Chlan farm. Guests are advised to dress appropriately based on the morning's weather. Those with handicap concerns are asked to call 952-457-4427 for additional information.

After Mass, participants will be transported back to the church and encouraged to attend a reception at the social hall in the lower level of the church. In the event of inclement weather, the Mass will take place at the church.

We would like to extend a special invitation to the many people who grew up in the parish