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Then began Fr. LeDuc’s next project of rebuilding the church after it was condemned by architects. He built many churches. One of special interest is our St. Joseph Chapel on Dunbar Avenue.
A fire on November 16, 1907 burned down the school, Our Lady of the Gulf Church and the rectory. Not disheartened, our parish community built a new church by December, 1908 under the pastorship of Fr. John Prendergast.
By 1908, St. Joseph Academy Boarding and Day School was rebuilt ans served the young ladies of the area until the school closed in 1967. In 1969, Hurricane Camille destroyed most of the SJA buildings. A girl’s school was reopened in 1971 as Our Lady Academy under the leadership of Msgr. Gregory Johnson. He was an instrumental and a driving force in leading the parish to make a comeback of the popular girl’s school. Today it is still flourishing as a stronghold for girls’ education in our community.
In August, 1988, a fire destroyed the gym on the SJA property. Over the years, the property had been sold. Eventually, the church bought it from Merchants Bank. The Shrine, which is the oldest section of the property, has withstood the fire and numerous hurricanes.
In I960, Our Lady of the Gulf Elementary School was founded under the direction of the Sisters of St. Joseph and Msgr. Martin Maloney. In 1976 it merged with St. Rose School and was renamed Bay Catholic School under the Sisters of the Holy Spirit. When the St. Rose campus closed in 1982, it became known as Bay Catholic Elementary and has since been lay-staffed.
Fr. Buteaux would be pleased to see that the Shrine of Our Lady of the Woods is still in place and a favorite stopping place for many a parishioner to pause and reflect. The statue of Mary was recently repainted by Ann & Tom James. For the past 45 to 50 years, Henry Lang, a devoted parishioner, has lovingly watched over the care of the Shrine.
The Shrine evokes memories, for many, of past First Communion & Confirmation pictures and May Crowning celebrations. Sr. Vincent of Our Lady of the Gulf School referred to the Shrine as "a special, quiet place to pray.”
If you are interested in the perpetuation of this Shrine and its beautiful property, please consider purchasing a granite plaque. Plaque stones may be purchased in memory of a former OLG priest, a family loved one (deceased or living), or even in memory of a favorite saint. Engraved stones also make a nice memorial gift for a newly married couple, a wedding anniversary of the birth of a grandchild. What better way to celebrate the memory of a loved one or special event that can be lasting?
A stone that catches you unaware and touches your heart reads: ' 'Have I told you lately that I love you?’ ’ The engraving conjures up an image of a kind, gentle person who no doubt spreads cheer and has a fondness for our parish. So, as you see, a stone can be of your own unique message to last for ages to come.
The Walk of Memories is about our founding priests and sisters who planted the seeds to nourish our community as family. It is about you and your grandfather and grandmother. It’s about our people, not only long ago but also not so long ago, and all the people who make the story and history of our parish so special.
To reserve a stone for your family, a priest, or anything special you want remembered, please contact the rectory at 467-6509.