It was on Pentecost Sunday, 19 May, 1991, that the church of Holy Family, Menai, was dedicated and held its first Mass. Prior to that, Mass had been celebrated at Bangor Community Centre, and Bangor and Holy Family primary schools.
Since then, the parish has grown dramatically in numbers and cultural backgrounds.
A multicultural food tasting event was a highlight of anniversary celebrations, showcasing cuisine from 18 countries, including soup, finger food, high tea, biscuits and desserts.
More than 400 people attended the event, which brought a vibrant atmosphere to the John Paul II Hall.
“It was a joy to behold the sharing and savouring of the various culinary cultures, meeting new people and everyone enjoying the occasion and each other’s company,” said parishioner Sue Low.
Parish priest Fr Phil Zadro said the evening represented the generous character of the parish community.
Fr Phil “was absolutely delighted by the enthusiasm and generosity shown by those there on Friday evening”, she said.
The anniversary was officially celebrated on Pentecost Sunday, 15 May, with founding parish priest Fr Denis Foley in attendance.
Fr Foley said that while a church building is just that, a building, of profound significance is the people and parish community found within its walls.
