CLAYTON—In early June, Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory dedicated the new parish life center at St. Helena Church following the bilingual Mass for the feast of Corpus Christi at 11 a.m. Father Jose Luis Hernandez and Father Alvara Avendano, administrator of the mission, assisted at the dedication.

In his homily, Archbishop Gregory spoke of food in a Scriptural context, but adding that the day was “not just about eating; it is about thanksgiving, about the future, about recalling a yesterday and all of its promise.”

He said, “Today we bless and dedicate a new pastoral building placed at the service of this community of St. Helena. No doubt, this building will also be the location of many happy meals and shared moments of laughter and joy. This building is intended to provide for the religious needs of the people who made it possible and for the many people who will use it in the future as a welcome place for gathering.”

The parish life center includes a library, offices and St. Rafael Hall to be used for parish celebrations.

After the ceremony, over 250 parishioners and guests enjoyed a seated brunch and entertainment by members of the Hispanic congregation in the St. Rafael Hall.

The new center includes the Our Lady of Good Counsel library, Ignatius Loyola office, the religious education and Hispanic ministry Office, four classrooms and St. Rafael Hall.

The parish life center is connected to the main church by a covered walkway of bricks in honor or in memory of parishioners and former priests.

The parish plans to use the center to for celebrations of fellowship, education, administration, inspiration and renewal of the Catholic faith.

St. Helena Church is located at 137 Meadow Stream Lane, Clayton.