AMHERST - As time winds down before Holy Family Parish moves to its new home, memories are being collected for a commemorative calendar to help celebrate the occasion.
The church's transition committee is holding a photo contest among parishioners featuring photos from either the St. Charles Borromeo or Nativity of Our Lady parishes with the winning 12 photos being published in a calendar that will be sold as a fundraiser for the million-dollar construction project that's nearing completion.
"We're looking for all kinds of photos. It could be photos taken in the past at either of the two churches, or it could be something taken between now and the end of the contest on June 15," committee member Chris Manuge said.
Considering the rich heritage of both churches, Manuge figures there are numerous photos out there that could be considered for the calendar. While heritage photos are something that will definitely be included in the project, so too will be the various celebrations and events held at Nativity and St. Charles over the years.
"It could be anything really," she said. "We're looking for photos that capture ceremonies and special moments. It could be something like the sun streaming through a stained glass window."
The contest is open to Amherst and area residents. Entrants are asked to submit photos in jpeg format or four-by-six colour prints along with their name and telephone number. They can be submitted by email to hgotell@eastlink.ca or by mail to Photo Contest, Box 1075, Amherst, B4H 4E2.
Those whose photos are selected for the contest will be notified by July 30.
Unfortunately, photos that are submitted cannot be returned.
An anonymous panel of judges will select the winning 12 photos for the calendar.
Manuge sees the calendar being popular among parishioners.
"There are many families in which the adult children are no longer living in Amherst. We see this as an opportunity for parents to pick one up and tuck it in with a Christmas present as a commemorative item from home," said Manuge.
The photo contest is just one of the celebrations surrounding the building of the new parish. Members of the transition committee have been collecting a number of small items for inclusion in a time capsule that will be located near the main entrance.
The opening of the new home for the parish is scheduled for Sunday, July 25 at 4 p.m.
dcole@amherstdaily.com
