History
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Saint Gabriel's parish, celebrating its 50th Anniversary, is a younger parish in the history of the Albany Diocese-but it has "a story to tell." With other churches in the diocese, this era was impacted by Vatican II with changes in liturgy and related church structures.  

The parish, consisting of 500 families, was established on June 8, 1956, with the first Mass held in the Carman Fire Hall on June 10, 1956. Groundbreaking and laying of the cornerstone made the local papers, and the initial Mass was held in newly built Saint Gabriel's, November 3, 1957, with Father Joseph Honan, first pastor, presiding.  

During Father Honan's era (1956 - 1973) the emphasis was on the physical such as the development and use of grounds and buildings. Some beginnings of parishioner participation were evident in the ushers, choir, altar servers and Women's Club.  

By 1979, Vatican II was reflected in the formation of a Parish Council, the renovation of the church and changes in liturgy. The spirit of Vatican II was "well along its way".  Under the direction of Father Thomas Vail, the second pastor of Saint Gabriel's, the first real opportunities for ministry were started. The Sunday choir moved from the choir loft to the main floor of the church in order to interact with parishioners.

Currently, under Father Leo Markert, our pastor with the longest tenure, all opportunities for ministry have been expanded, especially in activities for the youth. The rectory and parish activities have been opened to all. Service and ministry opportunities have been extended, with Father Leo giving strong encouragement to all to be active, loving and spiritual members of the parish.  

Upon reaching this 50th-anniversary milestone, may Saint Gabriel's Parish continue to experience many God filled years.  

Saint Gabriel's celebrated its 50th Anniversary on June 4, 2006. Gloria Halstead--Historian—11/10/05