Some big plans are in the works now that a local committee has finally gained possession of a major landmark in the Port au Port region.
Our Lady of Mercy Roman Catholic Church in Port au Port West is one of the province’s largest wooden churches. It was designed by noted architect William F. Butler and built in 1914 to accommodate an anticipated population boom from the opening of a limestone quarry in Aguathuna.
The population boom never occurred and the quarry closed in the 1960s.
The church features a steeple that rises 115 feet and is big enough to accommodate 1000 parishioners. It was designated as a Registered Heritage Structure in 1997.
Photo by Jon Myers
Our Lady of Mercy Complex Committee Chair Denise Goosney says although they have been running events in the church for some time, they finally purchased the building and outlying structures from the local Diocese, making them eligible for government funding.
Goosney says their first order of business is to conduct a structural assessment of the church and apply for the appropriate funding. She admits it’s a daunting task.
“It’s kind of scary… but something that needs to be done to preserve the culture and heritage of the area.”
A number of major events are planned this summer including the Port au Port Grand Ol’ Opry Show June 11. A full list of planned events can be found on the church’s website.
