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Easter 2000 History at Old St. Mary’s [5th in a
series] In 1890, work on the remodeling of the church was begun, in order that all might be ready for the Golden Jubilee celebration. The interior of the church was remodeled after plans drawn up by the pastor, Father Bernard J.M. Menge. Arches were formed above the windows, as well as in the ceiling in order that the entire building would conform more consistently with the Roman Basilica style of church architecture. The sacred furnishings were restored: the altars were repainted; the pulpit, confessionals and Stations of the Cross were renewed. An opening was made in the ceiling above the sanctuary, and a stained glass window depicting the Descent of the Holy Spirit was placed there, in order to illuminate the sanctuary with the other-worldly light created by the colorful glass. New pews and new flooring were put in—the pews and flooring we have in the church today—as well as a new heating system. Changes were also made to the doors and windows at the front entrance to the church and in the vestibules. The total cost of all the changes came to $20,000, almost all of which was paid for by donations from parishioners. There were no grants from historical foundations or large bequests from wealthy businessmen from the community. All parishioners carried their weight in contributing to this project which transformed St. Mary’s into the church we know today (with the exception of the stained glass in the opening over the sanctuary, which now houses the main fan blower). The great day of the Golden Jubilee was celebrated with a Solemn High Mass with the Archbishop. The church was beautifully decorated by parishioners with flags, bunting, and evergreen. The houses in the neighborhood were bedecked in festive attire as well, in honor of celebrating the 50th anniversary of the foundation of this parish at the corner of 13th and Clay Streets. A few years later, in 1897, Father Menge, who was responsible in overseeing the Golden Jubilee, died at Old St. Mary’s. It was a Sunday morning after he had preached about the General Judgment that he was called to his eternal reward. He was found sitting dead in a chair by Father Tieman, the assistant priest at the parish. In his hand Father Menge held his Divine Office prayer book. He had been called by God while praying his daily prayers! In his 17 years as pastor of Old St. Mary’s (1881-97) he accomplished much good, both spiritually and temporally, for the parish during his time here. He was the third pastor of Old St. Mary’s Church. PAST HISTORY ARTICLES
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