VERNON RIVER

(5t. joachim’s)

ARLY SIiTTLljRS in this area

were Scottish families

who moved over from Tracadie and Irish immigrants who joined them later. A small log church was built at Waterside in 1804 and a second one a few years later near the

water south of the present hall. A third church. constructed around 1830 and enlarged in the 18505. stood close to today's cemetery.

In 1868 the present brick rectory was built, replacing an older one ofage unknown. Since 1845 the parish has had a resident pastor.

In 1877 began the erection of the present magnificent brick church. It was consecrated by Bishop MacIn tyre two years later, with Bishop Walsh ofLonclon giving the sermon.

In 1902 the majestic pipe organ was installed.

A mission church (Star ofthe Sea) opened at China Point in 1897 and closed in 1970. The present parish hall was constructed in 1900.

Fatherjames Morrison was pastor here from 1907 until 1912. In that latter year he became Bishop oFAntigonish where he served until his death in 1950.

Perhaps the most prominent parishioner was Francis Kelley

94 OUR PARISHES

who left the parish at age Five. \Vhen still a

young priest he Founded the Catholic Church Extension Society of the United States in 1905. Then From 1924 until his death in 1948 he was Bishop of Oklahoma City and Tulsa.

Today 320 Families live in Vernon River Parish which is dedicated to St. joachim. More than twenty priests and upwards of Forty religious sisters have come From here. Nowadays the pastor also

serves St. Michael’s I’arish, Iona.

VleE Ell‘CElS OF primary

farmlands abound throughout the parish, as well as an abundance of scenic

\VZICL‘I'\VZl)/S.