At the Centennial Gala, Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector spoke to participants about the church’s impact on the community during this past century.

“For 100 years, Saint Cecilia has been a gathering place for those to connect with God, to get comfort, to get strength, to get wisdom, to spread God's love throughout this city. It's very apparent over these 100 years that this church has done just that. It's made this city, in large part, what it is today, and I thank you for doing that,” said Mayor Rector before reading a proclamation about the parish.

Mayor Rector also spoke about the Diocese of Saint Petersburg’s new Pastoral Plan, Call to Conversion.  He said:

“One of the things I saw tonight is one of the priorities for the pastoral (plan). Priority one, we will place God first in all things. That is part of the reason why Saint Cecelia has made such an impact for 100 years. You've been doing that as a church for 100 years, and it's very, very important that you continue to do that. If our community, not just this church, but through this church's leadership, will continue to put God first in all things, the church will be successful, the city of Clearwater will be successful.”

In addition to various speakers who shared stories about the church’s history, the event featured folkloric dancers, a Mexican tradition dating back centuries. The dancers celebrate Mexican culture with colorful costumes and lively choreography. The dancers charmed the attendees who clapped and followed along with the music.

St. Cecelia Parish was the first Catholic church built in Clearwater and the first to welcome Mexican immigrants. The parish established a free medical clinic to serve the Hispanic community 30 years ago, and the parish still serves a large diverse community as they celebrate faith and cultural traditions throughout the year. Their associate pastor, Father Jesus Martinez, is originally from Cuba.

This Friday, November 22nd at 6 p.m., Bishop Gregory Parkes will celebrate a Centennial Multicultural Mass. Everyone is welcome. The parish is located at 820 Jasmine Way, Clearwater. If you arrive at 5:15 p.m., you will enjoy a beautiful musical prelude. A reception will follow in the parish hall.

On Saturday, November 23rd, 6 p.m., Emmet Cahill, Irish Tenor will perform Live at Saint Cecelia. Tickets are $40 and are available in the Parish Office.

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.