Sisters of Divine Providence Attend the Dedication of the New Church of the Visitation, Westphalia, Texas

August 28, 2023

The rich tapestry of faith and resilience in Westphalia was beautifully displayed Sunday, August 27, as the community gathered to dedicate the new Church of the Visitation. Following the tragic fire in 2019, the resilient people of Westphalia had been gathering for prayers in the parish hall. Their perseverance and unwavering faith culminated in the completion of a new church building, a true embodiment of hope and renewal.

The new church building, which boasts a seating capacity of 450, was complemented by the school gym, which was set up to seat an additional 500 attendees. Furthermore, a tent was erected outside to accommodate another 500 people. This spoke volumes about the anticipation and excitement within the community and highlighted the significance of the church in the hearts of its parishioners both current and former.

Notable features of the new church are four special windows, each commemorating the significant contributors from the parish:

A window dedicated to Blessed John Martin Moye, honoring the 22 Congregation of Divine Providence (CDP) Sisters.
A window for St. Dominic, recognizing the 16 Dominican Sisters of Houston.
A window for St. John Vianney, celebrating the 14 priests.
And lastly, a window for St. Stephen, paying tribute to the deacons.

The presence of CDP Sisters Jacinta Berger, Anita Brenek, Jane Ann Slater, and Madeleine Zimmerer further elevated the occasion. The Congregation of Divine Providence has a long and cherished history with the Church of the Visitation, having served the school and parish for over a century. Their mission on Sunday was to offer prayers for the parish community and to encourage continued vocations to religious life and the priesthood.

The dedication ceremony was not just about inaugurating a new building. It symbolized the indomitable spirit of a community that had faced adversity, held firm in their faith, and emerged stronger. After the ceremony, a meal was served, allowing the parish and surrounding communities to bond, celebrate, and look forward to a future rich in faith, hope, and unity.