This evening’s Pilgrim Train stopped in in a city that encompasses 10.2 square miles. West Haven is located in Weber County and was incorporated 1991, combining the unincorporated
Saint Mary Catholic Church is effortlessly situated on beautiful grounds with ample parking and a large picnic area in the distance. A lovely white statue of Mary is in front of the church surrounded by a circle hedge with a large iron arch that rises above the statue. The church building is made mostly of a tan stone along with stucco. There are two sets of glass doors for entrance to the spacious foyer. Above the glass doors is a beautiful stained glass of their Patron Saint Mary with Jesus as a young child. Immediately to the right of the doors is a small gift shop, and going right to left, a stained glass panel with symbolism of Jerusalem, a picture of Pope Francis, many periodicals, lovely statues of Joseph and Mary, a gum disposal area, sign-up tables, adoration area for Our Lady of Guadalupe and three elegant chasubles draped on the left wall. The hallway to the religious education classrooms is to the right from the foyer and to the left is the sacristy and various offices.
There is an enormous stained glass window above the church entrance that is full of symbolism and beauty. Through the glass panel doors entering into the narthex of the church and immediately in front is a large baptismal font with a paschal candle in front. The confessionals are along the back right wall. There are four sets of pews that face the altar, two on the left and two on the right. They are upholstered in a burgundy fabric with matching kneelers. The walls are a creaming white and there is an abundance of light that enters through the tall ceiling windows along with the side stained glass panels that are on the side walls. Side walls also feature beautiful Stations of the Cross that have their own up lighting. Accent beams are on the high ceilings that are directly above the main aisle along with small arched windows. Two alcoves frame the altar with a cross and exquisite statues of Mary and Joseph and an adoration area is next to each of them.
Since it is Lent, the altar is adorned in purple fabric and symbolic banners. The altar table has a purple cloth on top along with two candles on each end. On the floor and just in front of the altar table is a detailed desert scene. Behind the altar is another alcove that houses the tabernacle that is framed by two plants and a dove above. There is a charcoal tile that seems to arch the alcove and also point toward the large crucifix above that is draped in purple. The altar reminded me of a southwestern look and was very peaceful. Two symbolic banners are on each side of the altar along with two more stained glass panels. The chairs for the ministers of the mass are to the right of the tabernacle along and the pulpit is to the left of the altar along with the music area.
Father Gustavo Vidal is a very passionate priest and truly wants to get his parishioners involved and aware of what the Gospel is revealing. The parishioners of the church are welcoming to new parishioners and make every effort to follow the bible’s fellowship advice. Let us always meet each other with a smile, for a smile is the beginning of love – Mother Teresa. Thank you to Father Gustavo and the parishioners for your loving smile and extending your hands to me. May God continue to bless you and your parish forever.