Renovation Updates – Week Seven
Things continue to progress steadily! This week brought more decisions on decorative elements, including more color selections and stenciling details.
It was decided that the columns will be painted a light brown, which ties in beautifully with the arches and ensures the columns don’t visually overpower the space. We also finalized the color for the new wainscot (yet to be installed) - a greyish brown that will offer a pleasing contrast to the neutral and beige tones throughout the rest of the church.
It was decided that the columns will be painted a light brown, which ties in beautifully with the arches and ensures the columns don’t visually overpower the space. We also finalized the color for the new wainscot (yet to be installed) - a greyish brown that will offer a pleasing contrast to the neutral and beige tones throughout the rest of the church.
The designs were also finalized for night sky being painted on the center ceiling and how the stars will appear in terms of formation, size, and placement.
The capitals of the columns were primed this week in preparation for detailed painting.
It might be hard to see but they've begun here the first stage of gold stenciling, which will appear on the walls behind the two side altars and on the upper back wall of the sanctuary.
The beiges and neutrals throughout the space will be accented with gold to give the church a dignified and solemn look.
Here’s a peek at how the grand arch is coming along, now enhanced with gold accents that highlight its original details.
Here, those angel medallions high up on the nave walls will be receiving accent painting to help them stand out. Some parishioners have told me they never even noticed they were there!
Our generous parishioners working on the electrical system continue to make steady progress. New accent lighting is being installed throughout the church to brighten the space and draw attention to the architectural features.
Meanwhile, progress was also made on the design of the glass enclosure for the entryway. We’re currently waiting on final samples before moving forward with manufacturing.
Meanwhile, progress was also made on the design of the glass enclosure for the entryway. We’re currently waiting on final samples before moving forward with manufacturing.
Painting of the dismantled altar pieces at Our Lady of Perpetual Help on North Front Street is nearly complete, and they’ll be ready for transport to SFX in the next few weeks.
Lastly, a big thank you to a couple of parishioners who have volunteered during the closure to repair imperfections in the pews while they’re out of use and easily accessible. They’ve also taken on the important task of modifying the side pews that used to be nailed into the wall so they can now be freestanding, which means we won’t have to nail into the new wainscot.
Thank you for your continued support, and if you'd like to contribute to the renovation, you can donate here (Select 100th Anniversary):
Lastly, a big thank you to a couple of parishioners who have volunteered during the closure to repair imperfections in the pews while they’re out of use and easily accessible. They’ve also taken on the important task of modifying the side pews that used to be nailed into the wall so they can now be freestanding, which means we won’t have to nail into the new wainscot.
Thank you for your continued support, and if you'd like to contribute to the renovation, you can donate here (Select 100th Anniversary):
A Century Ago This Weekend…
We’re looking forward to celebrating the 100th anniversary of the church’s dedication on Saturday, September 13th, 2025. But did you know that this weekend actually marks the 100th anniversary of the church’s opening for Mass? On July 26th, 1925, the very first Sunday Mass was celebrated in the newly constructed upper church.
At first, in 1916, only the lower basement portion of the building was built. Mass was held there from 1916-1925 while the parish fundraised and built the upper church we know today. Here's a photo of what the lower church looked like.
At first, in 1916, only the lower basement portion of the building was built. Mass was held there from 1916-1925 while the parish fundraised and built the upper church we know today. Here's a photo of what the lower church looked like.
I know the exact date (July 26th) because last year I discovered several handwritten notebooks filled with weekly Mass announcements, recorded in French, dating from the 1920s through the 1950s. There was no bulletin back then, so all parish news was announced out loud, usually between the Gospel and the homily. (And some of you think my announcements are long 😂) It’s amazing that the pastor, Fr. André Larivière, SS.CC. (pastor from 1918–1935), kept such a detailed record. The announcements cover everything from Mass times and death notices to weekly collection reports. Kind of like their version of Flocknote. (Think anyone will be reading this email a hundred years from now? 😂 )
The church was opened on July 26th, and Mass began to be celebrated there, even though it had not yet been consecrated. That solemn dedication took place on September 13th, when Bishop Daniel Feehan, the second bishop of the Fall River Diocese, came to formally dedicate the church. That date is what holds the true significance.
Anyway, here’s a photo of Fr. Larivière’s notes from that Sunday, labeled: “Opening of the New Church.”
Anyway, here’s a photo of Fr. Larivière’s notes from that Sunday, labeled: “Opening of the New Church.”
Here is the English translation:
P. 66
9. On this beautiful day, I believe I would be failing in my duty if I did not say how satisfied I have been with our two contractors: Mr. Étienne Robitaille and Albert Dumaine of N.B., who built this beautiful church.
They carried out their work with admirable fidelity and loyalty under difficult circumstances, and they exceeded the specifications better than expected.
Everything is well finished, nothing left undone or visible.
Our relationship was always excellent, and I never had to raise my voice.
I am happy to offer this testimony of them on this solemn day and I hope never to regret having spoken these words, which they deserved.
They deserve the public’s praise.
Quick tour of the church
Even though we don’t know where to focus our attention, the whole building is imposing, and the details are so well executed that one does not tire of admiring them.
Architecture: beautiful.
Windows: large, allowing an abundance of light and letting in fresh air and sunlight.
Pews: very comfortable and beautiful.
Confessionals: elegant, set in the wall, do not encroach on space. The curtains on the side make them easy to use even during a half-obscured service. Avoid loud voices.
p. 67
Pulpit: shall I say - a masterful piece, made according to a design by our contractors.
2 beautiful lamp tables, more stylish than flashy — donation of $10 each.
The Communion rail: made of oak; beautiful and long — railing that will close off the sanctuary, for processions and ceremonies. Excellent exercise for our young altar servers and children.
Cloth for the Communion rail donated by Mrs. Wilfrid Langlois.
In the sanctuary:
2 spacious niches meant to receive statues.
Statue of St. Anne
Statue of St. Therese of the Child Jesus — new statue in memory of Mr. and Mrs. Wilfrid Langlois, Hope Street. Remarkable statue — the features express gentleness, goodness, and all childhood’s charm.
They carried out their work with admirable fidelity and loyalty under difficult circumstances, and they exceeded the specifications better than expected.
Everything is well finished, nothing left undone or visible.
Our relationship was always excellent, and I never had to raise my voice.
I am happy to offer this testimony of them on this solemn day and I hope never to regret having spoken these words, which they deserved.
They deserve the public’s praise.
Quick tour of the church
Even though we don’t know where to focus our attention, the whole building is imposing, and the details are so well executed that one does not tire of admiring them.
Architecture: beautiful.
Windows: large, allowing an abundance of light and letting in fresh air and sunlight.
Pews: very comfortable and beautiful.
Confessionals: elegant, set in the wall, do not encroach on space. The curtains on the side make them easy to use even during a half-obscured service. Avoid loud voices.
p. 67
Pulpit: shall I say - a masterful piece, made according to a design by our contractors.
2 beautiful lamp tables, more stylish than flashy — donation of $10 each.
The Communion rail: made of oak; beautiful and long — railing that will close off the sanctuary, for processions and ceremonies. Excellent exercise for our young altar servers and children.
Cloth for the Communion rail donated by Mrs. Wilfrid Langlois.
In the sanctuary:
2 spacious niches meant to receive statues.
Statue of St. Anne
Statue of St. Therese of the Child Jesus — new statue in memory of Mr. and Mrs. Wilfrid Langlois, Hope Street. Remarkable statue — the features express gentleness, goodness, and all childhood’s charm.
Altar: true masterpiece, made according to the plan of our contractors, executed by Mr. Normand, 25 County Street, N.B.
A real monument, admirable in its lines and its execution.
The whole altar, the statue of St. Joseph with the child, the angels, garlands, columns, steps, and inscriptions — all executed by Mr. Albert Dumaine, our parishioner.
Painting by Mr. Albert Dumaine: It gives a gentle and pleasing effect. And highlights the sacred character of the church.
In summary, the generosity of our people made this beautiful church possible.
Our parish also has many friends in our town, whose generous hearts have not failed us in these times. I want to thank them and bear witness to their goodness.
Thank you! Oh friends, thank you! May God bless you!
Missing:
An organ of 7–8 stops ($500–$1000)
Side altars: St. John, St. Thérèse
Lamps for the sanctuary
Holy water fonts, benches, decorations...
Thank you! Oh friends, thank you! May God bless you!
Missing:
An organ of 7–8 stops ($500–$1000)
Side altars: St. John, St. Thérèse
Lamps for the sanctuary
Holy water fonts, benches, decorations...
A few weeks later, the pastor announced that a parishioner who owned a camera would be taking a souvenir photo to commemorate the occasion. It would be printed on a metal sheet and sold to parishioners. I’ve seen a few copies that still survive. Here’s a photo of the two pictures taken and some other later historic photos.
You see above a few other images from that time period, including the interior and the high altar. The parish was especially proud of that high altar, as Father said. Interestingly, it was an exact replica of one in New Orleans, still preserved today in the historic Old Ursuline Convent. It’s amazing to think they were able to recreate that same design here in Acushnet a century ago.
The high altar at the Old Ursuline Convent in New Orleans today, which served as the model for our parish’s original altar.
Making St. Francis More Accessible
After consulting with those audio specialists over the past few weeks, we’ve decided to move forward with an exciting addition to our sound system: a hearing assistance technology called ListenWIFI. This system allows anyone with Bluetooth hearing aids or earbuds to connect directly to the church's sound system using their smartphone. It will also include headsets available for guests who may not have compatible devices.
This important upgrade will help ensure that St. Francis remains a welcoming and prayerful environment for all, including those who are hearing impaired.
While this is not part of the main church renovation project, we believe it’s a meaningful investment in accessibility. The cost of the system is $3,500, and if you feel called to help, we would gratefully welcome any contributions. You might even consider making a gift in honor of a loved one who struggles with hearing loss.
To contribute, you can:
- Drop a donation in the collection in a clearly marked envelope (“Hearing Assistance Donation”),
This important upgrade will help ensure that St. Francis remains a welcoming and prayerful environment for all, including those who are hearing impaired.
While this is not part of the main church renovation project, we believe it’s a meaningful investment in accessibility. The cost of the system is $3,500, and if you feel called to help, we would gratefully welcome any contributions. You might even consider making a gift in honor of a loved one who struggles with hearing loss.
To contribute, you can:
- Drop a donation in the collection in a clearly marked envelope (“Hearing Assistance Donation”),
- Donate on our online giving page under 100th Anniversary Campaign and write in the comment "Hearing Assistance Donation"), or
- Speak with me at the door after Mass if you’d prefer to discuss it in person.
Thank you for helping us make St. Francis a place where everyone can fully participate in the liturgy.
- Speak with me at the door after Mass if you’d prefer to discuss it in person.
Thank you for helping us make St. Francis a place where everyone can fully participate in the liturgy.
Seminarian Evan Mello's Final Weekend
This weekend is Evan Mello’s final one with us after spending June and July here at the parish. In addition to participating in parish life, Evan also served twice a week at Sacred Heart Nursing Home in New Bedford, caring for and ministering to the residents.
Thank you to everyone who wished Evan a happy 26th birthday last Sunday, and a special thanks to Bethany Pollard-Kowzic for bringing a cake to celebrate after the 8:00am Mass!
Evan will be present at all Masses this weekend, so be sure to wish him well. After a short break, he’ll return to Mt. St. Mary’s Seminary in Maryland to begin his second year of formation.
Thank you to everyone who wished Evan a happy 26th birthday last Sunday, and a special thanks to Bethany Pollard-Kowzic for bringing a cake to celebrate after the 8:00am Mass!
Evan will be present at all Masses this weekend, so be sure to wish him well. After a short break, he’ll return to Mt. St. Mary’s Seminary in Maryland to begin his second year of formation.
FOCUS Missionary Speaking Next Weekend
Next weekend (August 2/3), we’ll welcome Sheridan Bancroft, a local young adult who grew up in Wareham and has visited St. Francis Xavier for Mass and adoration over the years. Sheridan will speak briefly at the end of each Mass to share about her current work as a full-time missionary with FOCUS (the Fellowship of Catholic University Students).
Sheridan first encountered the Catholic faith through FOCUS missionaries at Bridgewater State University, leading her to be fully received into the Church in 2024. Now, she serves as a campus missionary at Montclair State University in New Jersey, walking with students just as others once walked with her.
She’ll be inviting those interested to support her mission through prayer or monthly support and will have contact cards available. You can also learn more about her story and how to support her here:
Sheridan first encountered the Catholic faith through FOCUS missionaries at Bridgewater State University, leading her to be fully received into the Church in 2024. Now, she serves as a campus missionary at Montclair State University in New Jersey, walking with students just as others once walked with her.
She’ll be inviting those interested to support her mission through prayer or monthly support and will have contact cards available. You can also learn more about her story and how to support her here:
Looking for deeper insight into this weekend’s readings? Check out this reflection from my favorite biblical scholar, Dr. John Bergsma
Image: The Importunate Neighbour by William Holman Hunt's (1895)
"Suppose one of you has a friend to whom he goes at midnight..."
On the Bulletin Cover this weekend...
Saint Leopold Mandić (12 May 1866 – 30 July 1942)
Feast day: July 30th
Canonized in 1983
A humble Croatian friar just 4′5″, crippled by arthritis and speech impediment, spent up to 15 hours a day as a confessor in Padua, drawing people from around the world with his gentle wisdom and deep mercy.
Feast day: July 30th
Canonized in 1983
A humble Croatian friar just 4′5″, crippled by arthritis and speech impediment, spent up to 15 hours a day as a confessor in Padua, drawing people from around the world with his gentle wisdom and deep mercy.
“Those whose confessions I hear, I give a light penance, therefore I need to do the rest of the penance instead of them”
“The holy gospel tells us, that one wave of Christ the Lord’s hand was enough to silence the storm at sea. Two thousand years later our Lord has not lost this power, He is eternal, and that is enough.”
“We do not need extraordinary penance. All we need is to endure with patience the usual worries of our miserable lives: misunderstandings, ingratitude, humiliation, suffering caused by changes of the seasons or by the environment in which we live. They form a cross that sin has put on our backs and which God has willed as a means for our salvation.”
All are welcome to join us for First Friday and First Saturday devotions this coming weekend, taking place in the school gym due to the church renovation.
Friday, August 1: 9:00am Mass and an additional Mass at 6:00pm, followed by a Holy Hour with devotions to the Sacred Heart and confessions available.
Saturday, August 2: After 9am Mass, Adoration with the Rosary and confession available.
These monthly devotions are a powerful way to draw closer to the Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Come pray with us!
Friday, August 1: 9:00am Mass and an additional Mass at 6:00pm, followed by a Holy Hour with devotions to the Sacred Heart and confessions available.
Saturday, August 2: After 9am Mass, Adoration with the Rosary and confession available.
These monthly devotions are a powerful way to draw closer to the Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Come pray with us!
Save the Date: Support our Local Sisters Oct. 4th
Where’s Allison, our Cantor?
July 25 — August 2, Allison will be attending the Floriani Collegium, a sacred music summer program at Thomas Aquinas College in Santa Paula, California.
This unique professional development opportunity is aimed at preserving the soul-stirring beauty of Catholic sacred music — Gregorian chant, polyphony, the Church’s timeless liturgical treasures, and the theology that binds them. In addition to many music rehearsals, Allison will also participate in daily liturgies, and various seminars.
The Church teaches that sacred music is no mere ornament. As Pope St. Pius X declared, “Sacred music increases the honor and glory of God.”
Floriani is a Catholic vocal ensemble dedicated to serving the Church and saving the culture through sacred music. Their vision of a revival of Catholic sacred music in churches nationwide, they believe, is one essential component in a greater reverence for Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. Their many recordings are widely available wherever you listen to music.
The Church teaches that sacred music is no mere ornament. As Pope St. Pius X declared, “Sacred music increases the honor and glory of God.”
Floriani is a Catholic vocal ensemble dedicated to serving the Church and saving the culture through sacred music. Their vision of a revival of Catholic sacred music in churches nationwide, they believe, is one essential component in a greater reverence for Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. Their many recordings are widely available wherever you listen to music.
Pray for Our Priests – August 4, 2025
From the Diocese:
On August 4th, the Feast of St. John Vianney, our parish priests from across our diocese will gather to make a historic consecration of their priesthood to the patron saint of parish priests. This profound act of entrustment is part of the Stronger Priests, Stronger Parishes, Stronger Church initiative – a bold effort to strengthen our priests so they can, in turn, renew our parishes and the whole Church.
We invite all parishioners to unite spiritually with our priests on this day by praying for them and their ministry. Their strength is our strength. Their holiness is the seedbed of vibrant parishes. This is a moment of grace for our diocese.
Over the next few weeks, but especially on August 4th, the diocese invites you to pray the following:
Prayer for Our Priests
Saint John Vianney, patron of parish priests, intercede for our priests as they consecrate themselves to you. Inspire them with your zeal, sustain them in their trials, and enkindle in their hearts the fire of Christ’s love. May they be shepherds after the Heart of Jesus, leading their people to holiness. Strengthen them in their vocation so that, through their renewed priesthood, our parishes may flourish, and our Church may be made strong. Amen.
On August 4th, the Feast of St. John Vianney, our parish priests from across our diocese will gather to make a historic consecration of their priesthood to the patron saint of parish priests. This profound act of entrustment is part of the Stronger Priests, Stronger Parishes, Stronger Church initiative – a bold effort to strengthen our priests so they can, in turn, renew our parishes and the whole Church.
We invite all parishioners to unite spiritually with our priests on this day by praying for them and their ministry. Their strength is our strength. Their holiness is the seedbed of vibrant parishes. This is a moment of grace for our diocese.
Over the next few weeks, but especially on August 4th, the diocese invites you to pray the following:
Prayer for Our Priests
Saint John Vianney, patron of parish priests, intercede for our priests as they consecrate themselves to you. Inspire them with your zeal, sustain them in their trials, and enkindle in their hearts the fire of Christ’s love. May they be shepherds after the Heart of Jesus, leading their people to holiness. Strengthen them in their vocation so that, through their renewed priesthood, our parishes may flourish, and our Church may be made strong. Amen.
Reminder: Join us for Coffee and Donuts on Sundays after Masses!
Save the Date: Abundant Hope PRC Gala
Thursday Sept. 25th
Blessed Stanley Rother's Feast Day is Monday July 28th
Please note, there will be NO 5:30pm Confessions on Monday, August 4th due a gathering of the Fall River priests with Bishop Da Cunha.
Mass Times
Sunday: 8:00 AM | 10:30 AM
Saturday Vigil: 4:00 PM
M, T, Th, F, S: 9:00 AM
Sunday: 8:00 AM | 10:30 AM
Saturday Vigil: 4:00 PM
M, T, Th, F, S: 9:00 AM
First Friday: 9:00 AM | 6:00 PM
Adoration Times
Monday-Friday
6:30am-8:45am, 9:30am-8:30pm
6:30am-8:45am, 9:30am-8:30pm
Wednesday
6:30am-8:30pm
Saturday
6:30am-8:45am, 9:30am-2:45pm
6:30am-8:30pm
Saturday
6:30am-8:45am, 9:30am-2:45pm
Confession Times
Monday: 5:30–6:30 PM
Saturday: 9:30–10:00 AM | 3:00–3:45 PM
Monday: 5:30–6:30 PM
Saturday: 9:30–10:00 AM | 3:00–3:45 PM
First Friday: 6:45–7:15 PM
Anytime by Appointment
To add someone to this weekly newsletter, they can either text the word ACUSHNET to 84576 or sign up at sfxparish.flocknote.com.