December 12, 2023, Los Angeles - Saint Mark Parish in Venice, California, part of the Our Lady of the Angles Pastoral Region of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, announced it will celebrate its Centennial on December 17, 2023 at 11:00 am, with a Mass and reception on site.

“We are thrilled to announce that we have been in Venice for 100 years. This holds immense significance in our community, both spiritually and culturally,” said Pastor Father Albert Van der Woerd.  “At Saint Mark, there is a lot to be thankful for after one-hundred years of lived experience in community.” 

Saint Mark Parish was founded in 1923 by Archbishop Cantwell, with Fr. Michael Lalor as the first pastor. Initially, it began as a small wooden structure on Victoria Avenue. Later that year, on December 17, the first mass was celebrated.

In 1952, the present site at 940 Coeur d’Alene Avenue was chosen, and the building commenced. The new church and rectory buildings, where they stand today, were completed in 1955.

The December 17 celebration will continue the Centennial celebrations for the Parish and the 75th anniversary for Saint Mark School.  The Mass, in which first class relics of Sr. Marie-Rose Durocher and Fr. Miguel Pro will be added to the altar, will be presided by Archbishop Jose H. Gomez assisted by Pastor Albert van der Woerd and Deacons Charlie Echeverry and Joseph Girard. 

Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher was a pioneer in Catholic education in Canada. She co-founded the congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary. One-hundred years after her death, the congregation would establish Saint Mark School in 1949.

Blessed Miguel Agustin Pro was ordained during the persecution of the Mexican church by the atheist President Calles. Father Pro called out “Viva Cristo Rey” (Long live Christ the King) before he was shot down by a firing squad on orders of President Calles. His exhortation was a rallying cry that helped topple the regime and bring victory to the Mexican church.

All community members are cordially invited to join in the Centennial Mass and reception and celebration of Saint Mark Parish. Following the Mass, a reception with live music in the Deacon Compean Parish Hall. This celebration is free and open to the public.

What: Centennial Celebration of Saint Mark Parish, Venice, CA

When: Sunday, December 17, 2023

Time: 11:00 am Mass; 12:30 PM Celebration with food and live music

Who: All Southern California residents are welcome

Contact: Parish Office, (310) 821-5058; Additional Information Here

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