July 22, 1989: One of the 50th anniversary celebration Masses
During the 1930’s, rural Rose Township quickly transitioned into a bustling suburb. The new families caught the attention of Archbishop John Murray. On July 24, 1939, Archbishop Murray appointed Father John C. Abbott as pastor of Saint Rose of Lima Parish. Like the town, the budding parish would experience significant changes within the coming decades.
As a young parish, Saint Rose celebrated Mass in Rose Town Hall. However, membership increased quickly, so that by 1940, a single building was constructed to house Saint Rose of Lima Church and School. When the school opened in September, eight Servite sisters were teaching 170 students. To accommodate growing school enrollments, parishioners began operating a diner at the Minnesota State Fair. In 1957, school enrollment peaked at 1240 students. The original building was no longer sufficient to house the school and church.
In 1955, Monsignor James Ryan had fundraised to build a new church structure and a convent – presently, the school gymnasium and the Parish Center. Then in 1967, Saint Rose erected a totally new structure – the modern church building, a round edifice composed of natural materials, like Minnesota Limestone. The original building plan had been altered to reflect values endorsed by the Second Vatican Council. The round shape of the church was meant to symbolize the active participation of the entire congregation united around the altar.
Generous parishioners sought many opportunities to participate in parish life. In the late 1950’s, families opened their homes for the catechesis of public school students. By 1988, 75 trained volunteers were ministering to over 400 religious education students. Parishioners also ministered to the homebound. They delivered hot meals through Meals on Wheels and brought Holy Communion to senior citizens. Then another movement developed. Eucharistic devotion exploded when, in 1989, 500 adorers committed to maintain a Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration chapel.
Although buildings, staff, and ministries have changed over the years, the Saint Rose community maintains continues to maintain a spirit of prayer and service. Today Saint Rose of Lima Catholic Church provides a home parish for over 1200 households in the Roseville area.
The above information was derived from the St. Rose of Lima Parish 1939-1989 directory.