In a year filled with joy, reflection, and deep gratitude, St. Alphonsus Catholic Church marked a remarkable milestone: its 100th anniversary.
Founded in 1923 by the Redemptorist Fathers, the parish has long stood as a spiritual home for generations—rooted in the mission of proclaiming the Good News and serving the surrounding community with love and compassion. Today, that legacy continues under the care of the Basilian Fathers, with Father Glenn McDonald serving as pastor.
Throughout the centennial year, the parish hosted a series of commemorative events that honoured its rich history while embracing the spirit of community.
Other highlights included historical exhibits, a vibrant evening of music and fellowship, joyful Christmas carolling around the parish neighbourhood, and a Centennial Dinner where parishioners—young and old—shared cherished memories, photographs, and heartfelt testimonies. Through these stories, the heart of St. Alphonsus shone brightly: a parish known for its multicultural vibrancy, its unwavering commitment to social justice, and its deep devotion to Our Lady.
For me, one of the most unforgettable moments was opening the time capsule. When we first began planning the centennial, we discovered references—through old records and longtime parishioners—to a time capsule that had been sealed inside the cornerstone when the church was blessed by Archbishop O’Leary in 1953.
On August 1, 2024, the Feast of St. Alphonsus Liguori, a small group of us, with Father Glenn’s support, set out to uncover the mystery. When the cornerstone was finally removed and we saw the capsule tucked inside, it was an emotional moment—part awe, part joy. Even more incredible was that its contents had survived the decades in remarkably good condition.
On September 14, the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, we returned the original items to the capsule —this time with meaningful additions of our own: recent photos of our parish community, newspaper articles marking the passing of Pope Francis and the election of Pope Leo, coins, prayer cards, and a beautiful letter penned by Joe Carr to the future. It felt like more than just preserving memories — we were leaving a piece of ourselves for the next generation, just as those before us had done.
Joe Carr, one of the founding members of the parish, reflected: “The essence of St. Alphonsus is, and has always been, one of service. Through the years, whatever the need, the parish always responded. Through the generations, service became its guiding principle.”
As this anniversary year draws to a close, the faithful of St. Alphonsus are reminded that while the past is a treasure, the mission continues. Inspired by the Redemptorist charism and guided by Our Lady of Perpetual Help, the parish steps into its second century with renewed zeal—to be a beacon of faith, hope, and love in the heart of Edmonton.
“Our hearts are full of gratitude for all the graces we have received from Jesus this year,” notes Father Glenn. “We look forward with joy to the unfolding of the mystery of the next 100 years for St. Alphonsus Church.”
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-Sandra Talarico