BEVERLY (NURSING HOME) CENTRE

In 1974, Fr. Greg McLellan, pastor of Holy Spirit Church, wanted to organize a weekly Mass for the residents of the Beverly Nursing Home. Two original volunteers, Monica Kuck and Terry Dunlop were asked to assist him. The staff of the Beverly Centre offered a small room with a card table as an altar. Approximately ten to fifteen residents came to worship, some participating in the Mass by doing the reading of the day.

As time progressed, resident numbers grew and more volunteers were needed. Our space was cramped and we were given use of the Dining Room where residents had their meals. In order to have Mass we were busy moving tables to make room. Fr. Joe Toole was with us at that time. The Martha Sisters had arrived in our parish and offered to assist us. A Holy Spirit Parishioner made us an altar and candle holder that we and other denominations still use today. Twice a year during Advent and Lent, we have a Healing Service for our Catholic residents.

In 1994 the Beverly Centre renovations were completed and we were given our present Chapel. When Father Joe was transferred, Father Tim Boyle and his assistants, Father Edmund Vargas and Father Alex Shahun, continued to celebrate Mass for the residents. Judy Carr is our present Volunteer

Co-ordinator with the help of Aurora McCleary, Helen Dolan and Agnes Rewucki as our pianist.