This book describes the early Catholic presence in west central Illinois, and provides specific accounts of the Catholic community in Arenzville, with a list of names of some of the earliest Catholic settlers. Also included is an account of how and where the community gathered for worship prior to building their church, records of the purchase of land for their church, and building of the church. Other content describes the activities of the Altar Society and the religious education programs over the years. The book also provides a chronological listing of the priests who served St. Fidelis from the earliest record to present and biosketches of priests from 1855 to 2008, as well as brief biosketches for two of the Dominican Sisters who supported the education program. A list of persons who were part of the church family from 1895 to present is also included. 222 pages, paperback, with photos and an index.
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