Church in Clearwater Gives Thanks for 100 Years

Posted inNews Releases

As We Approach Thanksgiving There is Much to Be Grateful For

What: 100th Anniversary of St. Cecelia Catholic Church, in Clearwater
When: Several Celebrations Planned in November
Where: St. Cecelia Parish, 820 Jasmine Way, Clearwater

One hundred years since its founding, the community of St. Cecelia Parish is giving thanks for the faith and the perseverance that has carried them through the last century, and the last two months, as hurricanes have battered parts of the area and impacted many families.

Interview/Photo/Video Opportunity

Yolando Moreno, Director of Hispanic Ministry, can speak about how St. Cecelia was the first Catholic church in the area to welcome Mexican immigrants in the 1950s, how the parish founded a free medical clinic to serve Latinos, and how the parish still serves a large Hispanic community and how they celebrate their traditions each year.

Paul Arnold is a 102-year-old parishioner who still attends daily Mass. He is a veteran who served his country and served his parish in many ways, including as a maintenance worker for the parish at one point. He can speak about the parish, then and now, and what the church community means to him.

Father Jesus Martinez, priest of St. Cecelia. He can speak about the beauty of the church including the 100-year-old-stained glass windows that have stood the test of time as they continue to visually express the beauty of the church’s traditions.

St. Cecelia Parish is planning three special events in November as part of their centennial and Thanksgiving celebration.

Saturday, November 16th, Centennial Gala, 6 p.m.
Belleair Country Club, 1 Country Club Lane, Belleair
The event will include an elegant dinner, words by Guest Speaker Fr. Lou Scurti, music, dancing, and a live and silent auction. 

Friday, November 22nd, 6 p.m., Centennial Multicultural Mass with Bishop Gregory Parkes
St. Cecelia Catholic Church, 820 Jasmine Way, Clearwater
Giving thanks for 100 years! Arrive at 5:15 pm to enjoy a beautiful musical prelude. A reception will follow in the parish hall.

Saturday, November 23rd, 6 p.m., Emmet Cahill, Irish Tenor, Live at Saint Cecelia
Famed Irish Tenor, Emmet Cahill, from the group Celtic Thunder, will provide an unforgettable performance. Tickets are available in the Parish Office.

The media are invited to share this good news story with a nice holiday connection, as well as preview and/or cover these events. Please confirm your attendance in advance. For more information, contact Teresa Peterson, 727-374-0217.

Additional Information:

Over one hundred years ago, Catholics in Clearwater used to gather for Sunday worship in nearby homes or hotels. Then, on Christmas Day 1924, the community of believers finally had a place to call their own. They gathered for Mass in their newly built church and gave thanks for their sacred space: St. Cecelia Parish.

Photo Caption: On March 24, 2024, parishioners gather with Father Jesus Martinez for the Palm Sunday blessing ceremony in preparation for Holy Week. Courtesy photo.