DEBARY | There is plenty to celebrate at St. Ann Parish in Debary for its 30th anniversary — new paint, new portico and a new pastor.
Bishop John Noonan installed Father Andrzej Jurkiewicz as pastor Aug. 6, 2023. Father Jurkiewicz spent the last year leading his flock in the “Renew, Restore, Rebuild” campaign to build up the church for future generations.
The new portico was blessed by Bishop during his recent visit. The late Father Peter Henry, pastor from 2006 to 2018, tasked Father Jurkiewicz with completing the gathering space for the faithful. Placed to the side of the beautiful statue of Jesus and Children is a sign in Father Henry’s honor.
Although many of the updates are structural, including a new roof, Father Jurkiewicz quotes St. John Paul II noting, “the parish is not principally a structure, a territory, or a building, but rather the Family of God, a fellowship afire with a unifying spirit, a familiar and welcoming home.” Father Jurkiewicz adds the parish stands “as a place for spirituality.”
Like Father Henry, Father Jurkiewicz calls it a “family parish” and believes they must feed the “deep human need for community.” All are welcome as St. Ann commits to Eucharistic Revival in the Church.