Catholics in the scenic mountain town of Clayton, situated between the Tennessee and North and South Carolina borders, gathered to celebrate the feast day of St. Helena on Sunday, Aug. 19, with a bilingual Mass at 11 a.m. at the Rabun County Civic Center. The Mass was celebrated by St. Helena Mission’s pastor, Father Abel Guerrero-Orta, who was assisted by Deacon John Barone.

During the liturgy five young adults also received their first Communion.

Following Mass was a covered dish luncheon, which featured folk dancing and karaoke.

The feast day was an inspiring celebration for the mission’s parishioners, who hope to begin the construction of a new building for the mountain mission in 2008.

St. Helena is located at 451 Warwoman Road in Clayton.