The bell tower of Assumption Church, Windsor. Photo by Mark Brown/Blackburn News.The bell tower of Assumption Church, Windsor. Photo by Mark Brown/Blackburn News.
Windsor

Assumption Church Celebrates 250-Years

The Assumption Parish in Windsor celebrates its founding day mass this weekend.

On Sunday, Bishop Ronald Fabbro will lead mass, followed by a sold-out gala luncheon at the Caboto Club.

As part of the parish's 250th-anniversary celebration, the church opened for the first time in August since it shut down in November 2014.

The roots of the Assumption parish date back to 1728 when Fr. Armand de La Richardie came to the region from Quebec to establish "The Mission of Our Lady of the Assumption" among the Hurons of Detroit.

In 1767, French families petitioned the Catholic church for a parish of their own, but instead of building a second religious centre, it was decided the Mission of the Assumption among the Hurons would become Our Lady of the Assumption Parish.

It was established October 3, 1767, and remains the oldest Catholic parish in Ontario.

Other parishes were established as the population grew, including Holy Name of Mary where Assumption parishioners now worship. However, Rosary Chapel continues to be used as the parish's historical site at the corner of Huron Church Rd. and University Ave. W.

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