Some of the younger members of St. Mary Parish in Leigh celebrate the parish’s 125th anniversary with a visit to a duck pond game. SUSAN SZALEWSKI/STAFF
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PHOTOS: At 125, parish is both old and young
August 25, 2025
St. Mary Parish in Leigh is an old, time-tested parish – one that has lasted through 125 years and three church buildings.
But in other ways, it’s youthful and vibrant, filled with young families and with more than 100 members who pack the church each Sunday, said Father Taylor Leffler, pastor.
St. Mary celebrated its thriving 125 years on Sunday, Aug. 24, with a 10:30 a.m. anniversary Mass, followed by food, fun and games.
Archbishop Michael G. McGovern was the main celebrant for the Mass, with Father Leffler and two former pastors, Fathers Rodney Kneifl and Stanley Schmit, concelebrating.
Two religious sisters who hail from the parish, Sister of Mercy Monica Reichmuth and School Sister of Christ the King Edith Ehlers, were among the special guests.
The priests and sisters joined in the festivities after the Mass, too.
