TARBORO, N.C. — St. Catherine of Siena Parish took a significant step toward its future Aug. 2 as nearly 300 parishioners gathered to celebrate the first Mass on the site of the parish's future home.
The celebration began with a Eucharistic procession from the current church to the newly acquired property. Upon arriving, the faithful gathered for adoration before processing around the land, praying for God's blessing on the site and the generations who will worship there.
Mass was celebrated outdoors on a handcrafted wooden altar built by a parishioner using wood found on the property. In his homily, Father Eric Michael Imbao, CICM, reminded parishioners that the Church is founded on faith rather than buildings.
"We don't need a building to celebrate the Mass," Father Imbao said. "As long as we are gathered in faith, God is present in our midst."
Reflecting on the day's Gospel account of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes, he encouraged parishioners to continue offering their gifts, sacrifices and trust to God, who blesses and multiplies what is given to him. Father Imbao noted that the new property is the fruit of the community's faith, generosity and perseverance.
Drawing on Scripture, Father Imbao reflected on the significance of the parish's new land.
“In the scriptures, whenever God gave his people a new land, it was never simply a gift of property. It was a sign of His faithfulness, His providence, and His goodness,” he said. “God has blessed us with this land.”
He also emphasized that the land represents more than a future building site.
“This land is not merely a place on a map,” Father Imbao said. “It is a place where people will be welcomed, where prayers will be offered, where children will learn about God, where families will be strengthened in the faith, and where future generations will encounter the presence of Christ. That is why, we come here and the first thing we did is bring the Eucharist and celebrate our thanksgiving in His presence in this Holy Mass.”
Looking to the future, Father Imbao reminded parishioners that the parish's new home will ultimately be built through the faith and commitment of its people.
“This place will not be built by stones alone, but by the faith of a people who believe in God, hope in His promises, and live His love,” he said.
Before the final blessing, Father Imbao thanked the many volunteers who spent weeks preparing the property for the event, including clearing the grounds, mowing grass and setting up tents.
Following Mass, parishioners shared a communal meal and fellowship despite summer heat and mosquitoes. The day marked a milestone in the 128-year history of St. Catherine of Siena Parish and a hopeful beginning as the community looks toward its next chapter.
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