BRUNSWICK — Bishop Robert P. Deeley’s visited the new 15,000-square-foot All Saints Parish multipurpose facility on Pleasant Street.

The bishop took his first look at the facility, now in its final stages of construction, on Wednesday, Nov. 28. The building features an open space that can be used as a gymnasium, auditorium and cafeteria; a stage; meeting and music rooms; an adoration chapel; locker rooms; and a fully-equipped kitchen, thanks to a donation from the Knights of Columbus Council 1947.

The colors of the new facility’s facade match the exterior of the St. John the Baptist Church, dedicated in 1927 and located directly across the parking lot. Adjacent to the new building is St. John’s Catholic School, which has stood since 1913.

The new sidewalk outside the building includes engraved pavers that have been purchased by individuals and organizations to honor teachers, priests, family members, graduating classes, and deceased loved ones.

The facility will be rented out to community organizations in addition to parish and school use. 

The capital campaign was launched in 2016 to raise funds for the facility, but the idea of having a multipurpose building for parish, school and community use dates back decades.

In recent years, however, the need for movement became more pressing when the town recreation center, a Knights of Columbus hall, and St. John’s parish hall were demolished, sold and restricted for occupancy, respectively.

Plans to finally construct the building took shape under the leadership of the Rev. Frank Murray (pastor of All Saints from 2009 to June of 2016) and have continued.

Parish and project leadership are quick to deflect accolades when it comes to taking credit. Parishioners, community members and a dedicated committee featuring representatives from different parish churches came together with boundless enthusiasm and a shared goal.

The building is scheduled for completion in February.

The outside of the new parish in Brunswick.