The popular hymn, “One Spirit, One Church,” notes that “we are a pilgrim people.”
Those traveling on a “pilgrimage” near state Route 8 might find themselves at St. Helen Parish in Newbury.
Father James “Jay” McPhillips, St. Helen’s pastor, welcomed Bishop Edward Malesic to the parish’s 75th anniversary Mass on Aug. 18. He continued the pilgrimage theme, pointing out that St. Helen was known for finding the true cross while on a pilgrimage.
“Over the past 75 years, St. Helen Parish has had our share of crosses to bear, but God has always abundantly blessed us,” Father McPhillips said.
During his homily -- after recounting some of milestone moments in the parish’s history -- Bishop Malesic told the story of two women on the “Larry Bird Pilgrimage” in French Lick, Indiana to see the basketball star’s childhood home and the street sign dedicated to the Boston Celtic great. The women were so focused on getting a picture with the sign that they didn’t realize Bird himself was walking through the background of their picture.
“They went on pilgrimage and missed the most important thing the bishop said, smiling.
Using that as an example, he reflected on the Gospel for the 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time, which featured St. John’s Bread of Life Discourse focusing on the Eucharist.
“We have many signs in our Church and believe that they point to something much greater than what they are. We say that the signs of bread and wine remain after consecration, but the substance … what it is, what makes it up, becomes the body, blood, soul and divinity of Jesus Christ.”
“Let’s always look beyond the signs of bread and wine and to see Jesus himself,” the bishop said.
It is the Eucharist, as he noted, that often brings others into and fallen away Catholics back to the Church.
“Let’s not be shy in inviting people to come to this altar,” he said gesturing to the center of the sanctuary.
After Mass, parishioners filled the gym for a reception featuring food, fellowship and a pictorial display recounting the parish’s long history in Newbury.
Learn more about St. Helen Parish here.