hrcathch.html

The Hood River Glacier, Hood River, OR., August 18, 1910, page 2

THE CATHOLIC CHURCH PROSPERS

That the Catholic Church is making progress at Hood River, is evidenced from the great improvement the Franciscan Fathers are making. In 1905 a few zealous Catholics of the valley, headed by Mr. Peter Mohr, a pioneer, by the labor of their own hands, built the first Catholic church and placed it under the patronage of the Immaculate Conception. Thus Hood River became one of the many missions in charge of Rt. Mons. Bronsgeest, V.G., of The Dalles. The following year, -- 1906 -- at the earnest request of the Bishop, the Franciscan Fathers took charge and established a monastery. A piece of land 227x200 feet was purchased at the corner of Montello and Prospect avenues. Rev. Maxmilian Kline was the first superior and pastor of the little church on the hill. He labored successfully, although with many difficulties, as the Catholics were few, until August, 1908, when he was succeeded by the present incumbent, Rev. Pius Niermann, O.F.M.
Shortly after the present pastor's arrival, March 31, 1910, the superiors of the order decided to move and enlarge the church. An addition is also being made to the monastery. The entire cost will be more than $3000. Rev. Father Pius is very grateful to all who are assisting him in the improvements. Catholics and non-Catholics are delighted to see the many changes going on in their town. The site of the church is the finest in Hood River, the church stands like a sentinel commanding a view of the lordly Columbia and the eternal snow capped peak of Mt. Adams in the distant. Stretching for miles in the background of the church is the rich and fertile Hood River valley, irrigated by the melting snows of Mt. Hood.
The valley is attracting many home seekers to reap its riches. Many of these are Catholics, for they know that their spiritual welfare will be well attended to by the saintly sons of St. Francis.