KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas City’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade starts in the shadows of one of the metro’s most historic churches. Redemptorist Church is celebrating its 100th birthday this year.
On Saturday, volunteers tried to raise money to ensure the church has many more birthdays. Betty Wood has been a member of Redemptorist Church her whole life.
“My grandma had three sons that became Redemptorist priests,” Wood said. “I graduated from Redemptorist High School.”
On Saturday, dozens of volunteers set up shop. They were raising money for the church’s capital campaign. Redemptorist has weathered wind and rain for 100 years. The outside of the building has damage around the front door. Inside, the elaborate, original stained glass windows need reinforcement.
“The parade doesn’t start until the bells of our lady ring out,” said Martin Cline who is in charge of maintenance at the church.
The bell was built in 1880. It only rings now to start the St. Patrick’s Day parade.
“As soon as it rings the crowd goes crazy with every ring,” said Martin Cline. “It’s so exciting to do this.”
Cline is sentimental when he rings the bell. He says it sounds like history. The chip in the bell stands as a symbol of many things that need repair.
“It really needs some tender loving care,” he said. “We definitely need a new roof. It’s been years since we had that done and the stone is falling apart on the outside all along the front of the church. I’ve been here for six years and everyday I walk into the church it overwhelms me with the beauty and the history that is here.”
Redemptorist Church is located at 33rd & Broadway in Kansas City. To learn more click here
