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About Our Parish
Parish Vision Statement
The Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish is a welcoming place of joyful worship where one finds grace, refuge, serenity, strength and compassion. Empowered with the Holy Spirit, with the love of the Father, the parish offers outreach, understanding and hope to a diverse community in a meaningful way. Prayerfully, openly, and lovingly, the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish provides a faithful witness to our Lord Jesus Christ.
Parish Prayer
Come Holy Spirit,
Come by the means
of the powerful intercession
of the Immaculate Heart of Mary,
Your well beloved spouse,
Upon the Parishioners of
Immaculate Heart
of Mary Parish.
Amen.
Parish Prayer
History of Our Parish
The original Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish began when a 16-room mansion, originally built by the late Senator E.D Smith, was purchased and established as Ontario's First Friary of the Franciscan Order. Our first priest was U.S. born Rev. Godfrey Wolf, who was sent to us from England. During negotiations for the purchase of the land and building, Masses were held in the small home of a German couple.
There was no money for the construction of a church, so two former Army Trade School buildings moved to Winona from Hamilton and were joined back-to-back in June 1953 with accommodations for 200 people. In 1953, Immaculate Heart of Mary Church was formed and dedicated by Bishop Ryan.
Initially, there were only 45 families within the Parish. During the time of the Church's construction came a temporary Convent, which then served as the rectory. A two class school was constructed and was attended by 55 students, taught by two Felician Sisters that took over occupancy on December 7th, 1953.
I sensed the peace as soon as I walked in. The atomosphere was light and airy and I felt like I was able to breathe.
Catherine M.
September, 2025
This church is truly magnificent, both in structure and spirit. Visiting in the morning, I had the entire space to myself— a rare and beautiful moment of solitude and reflection. The peaceful atmosphere made it all the more special.
The warmth of the community shines through, especially in the kindness of the church secretary and Fr. Greg. They are welcoming, accommodating, and genuinely uplifting souls. A place that not only inspires faith but also makes you feel at home.
Whether you’re a long-time parishioner or a newcomer like me, you’ll find a sense of belonging. The smiles, greetings, and even small conversations after Mass remind me that the Church is not just a building - it’s a family.
The church itself is beautifully maintained- clean, serene, and adorned in a way that lifts the heart and mind to God. Whether I’m there for weekday services or silent prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, there’s always a sense of peace that invites reflection and closeness with the Lord.
Beautiful traditional looking church that's actually fairly new.
Very reverential Sunday and daily masses, even Monday and Sunday evenings - last chance mass!
Beautiful traditional looking church that's actually fairly new.
Very reverential Sunday and daily masses, even Monday and Sunday evenings - last chance mass!
Reviews About the Parish
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