By Jeff Peters
Catholic Herald Correspondent

Frederic parish marks centennial of first Mass

FREDERIC -- Sunny skies greeted the Catholic Community of Frederic as they gathered to celebrate the 100th anniversary of St. Dominic Parish on Sunday, June 16.

It was at the home of John Matushalk in 1902 that Catholics held their first Mass in Frederic, according to Fr. David Lusson, who conducted the special outdoor Mass celebrating the parish's centennial.

"Nobody knows exactly where his home was, or the exact date of the first Mass, but we do know it was held in 1902," he said. "It was the first Catholic Mass in the village and two years later the Bishop gave permission to start St. Dominic Church."

Parish secretary JoAnn Marek, who dressed in traditional church costume from the early 1900's for the centennial Mass, said the parish is just as strong 100 years later. "This is a wonderful parish, full of wonderful people who are very family orientated.

"Everyone here knows your name," she said, noting the parish is growing and currently has over 350 families. "The church is always overflowing during the summer months. It's like one big family at St. Dominic."

85-year-old Roman Weinzierl, who made his first communion and confirmation in the original church, said, "I have many, many fond memories at this parish. It's been my home for most of my life. This is a special place with many friends."

Lusson said of the celebration, "This has been a blast from the past. The weather has been absolutely perfect for the outdoor Mass. It's a wonderful day with a great crowd of people."

Lusson noted parish members even sang the historic Catholic hymn "Gloria" from "Mass of the Angels" in Latin for the outdoor Mass. "That was just great. We did it! There was such great enthusiasm for the whole event," he said, noting the church's anniversary was held during Frederic's annual Family Days.

"It was the right time to have the celebration," he said. "The people in this parish are so fun and spirited and have a deep commitment to their faith."

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