Thermopolis, St. Francis 1970-1992

Thermopolis 1970-1992
St. Francis Church

As St. Francis parish entered the 1970’s, the pastor, Msgr. Philip Krass, observed the fortieth anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood. During his tenure thus far, a new church and parish house had been built and the parish was enjoying a term of relative prosperity without encumbrance of debt.

By this time, it was also evident that a parish center was a necessity. CCD classes and organizational meetings were held in the basement of the parish house and in various small rooms in the church itself, including the boiler room. Recent new fire codes were forbidding such gatherings in areas with only one method of access. Bids for the center were accepted in 1971. With a final cost estimated at $100,000, St. Francis Parish Center was dedicated in October 1972. Bishop Hubert Newell and Msgr. Thomas O’Reilly of Casper represented the Diocese of Cheyenne at the dedication ceremonies. The center was the final necessary major capital building improvement for the parish.

Msgr. Krass had been experiencing failing eyesight for some time and deteriorating health was added to the problem. By June of 1975, it was evident it would be in his best interest to retire and a replacement was named. Msgr. Krass remained in his post while Msgr. Daniel Carroll enjoyed a month’s vacation. Msgr. Krass made plans to move to a parish-owned house at 112 North 8th Street, across the street from the church. His sister, Sr. Norina Krass, who had assisted CCD instruction for many summers at the parish, arrived to care for him. He continued to celebrate early daily Mass at the church and also filled in for Msgr. Carroll during his absences.

In 1980, Msgr. Krass observed the Golden Anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood. The celebration was held in the parish center with many dignitaries from across the state in attendance. The occasion was observed at a later date in Detroit, where Msgr. Krass had been born and ordained. He died in Thermopolis on August 11, 1984. Funeral services were held at St. Francis with burial following in Detroit.

Msgr. Daniel Carroll was transferred from Powell and assumed his duties at St. Francis in July, 1975. He moved into the parish house with his sisters, Mary and Helen Carroll, as his housekeepers. During his tenure, the interior of St. Francis was remodeled with special emphasis placed on modernizing the sanctuary in accordance with Vatican Council II. Msgr. Carroll also oversaw the landscaping of the parish center. His tenure at St. Francis was of short duration. He announced his retirement in the summer of 1979 and retired to Greybull with his sisters, who continued to be his housekeepers.

During this decade, 169 baptisms were recorded, 26 marriages were performed, 91 first communions were distributed, there were 93 confirmandi, and 89 deaths.

Organizations included the Altar Society, the Knights of Columbus, the Catholic Youth Organization and CCD classes for grades one through twelve. Altar Society continued to be the most active with two major fund-raising projects each year, the annual fall harvest dinner and the spring bridge luncheon-style show. Mindful of their corporal duties to the parish, they continued to be one of the decreasing numbers of parishes to serve a dinner to mourners at funerals. The Knights held some activities and held monthly meetings at the parish center. CYO was not as active as in previous years, but events were scheduled for teens frequently. Upon her arrival in the parish, Sr. Norina undertook to direct the CCD program for the remainder of the decade.

Father Vincent Bauer arrived at St. Francis in the summer of 1979. The financial status of the parish was sound with all major construction projects completed. During the next decade, a great deal of maintenance was required, a reassessment of the church-owned properties was necessary and projects to enhance the beauty of the buildings were implemented. The maintenance projects included repair of interior church beams in 1982, addition of ceiling insulation in 1983, repairs to the downtown J. C. Penny building, repairs to the rental property at 112 North 8th Street, pavement of parking lots at the church and parish center, painting the parish center, replacement of the church roof, painting and repair of the gutters and eaves of the church, and painting of the exterior window framing.

After long negotiations with J. C. Penny concerning the local site, Fr. Bauer and the parish trustees concluded a contract for a period of five years. But in 1987, the company announced the closure of its operation in Thermopolis. The building has remained empty since that time.

The beauty of the church was enhanced with installation of stained glass windows; the bid was awarded to a Chicago-based designer in 1983. The windows are regarded as unique and have caused comment throughout the region. A carillon bell system was installed in the church in 1988. A public address system was installed in the church in 1981. It allows better audio quality in a building already well known in the community for its fine acoustics.

At this time it was also evident that a review of church-owned properties was necessary. Fr. Bauer sought advice from the legal quarter and a real estate agency. Meeting with the parish trustees, it was decided that repairs at the 735-739 Arapahoe Endres duplex were too extensive and the property was sold in 1981. At this same period, the Burnell property north of the church was offered for sale. It was purchased as possible parking space for the church. The house was purchased and removed to another site. The lot was properly contoured and paved. At the same time, a landscaping project at the church was completed.

The Golden property south of Thermopolis offered the final challenge in the reassessment of church-owned real estate. In the early part of the decade, advice was offered to retain the parcel, but a legal survey, which placed a strong emphasis on mineral and water rights, was suggested. The process was lengthy, taking almost two years. Upon completion of the survey, an old building on the site was razed and the area was leveled. Some years later, the parcel was deemed a liability and was offered for sale. The property was sold in 1991 for $80,000.

When Programs for People was introduced in the diocese by Bishop Joseph Hart, St. Francis participated. Though failing to meet the annual quota set by the chancery, sufficient funds remained in savings to supplement the drive.

In August 1987, the Diocese of Cheyenne observed its centennial in Wyoming. St. Francis was an active participant in the events. A complete history of the church was compiled with many articles and pictures collected for the display at the Casper Events Center. In addition, an oral history was recorded and a video program was prepared.

The CCD program was restructured in the early 1980’s with Mrs. Barbara Sullivan appointed as director. When she resigned because of poor health, the post was assumed by Madonna McIntosh, who retains the position at the present time. The program has received praise from the diocesan director for its excellence. Altar Society maintains an active position in church activities. An extra project was added to their agenda and the organization contributes heavily to the Madonna Plan through specialized efforts. In 1987, the Knights of Columbus achieved the highest membership quota in the state and received recognition at the state convention.

The parish also adopted an active lay ministry. The program continues to improve. Several Eucharistic ministers assist Father Bauer and there are also a number of lay readers, including some CYO members.

In 1991, the Synod was introduced. There has been active participation of various age groups. Many suggestions are being implemented to improve the spiritual, educational and social life of the parish.

An audio-visual system has been added to the CCD program and is also used for other purposes in the parish. The Catholic Youth Organization has been revitalized. Two young couples are working with the teens in the parish and have succeeded in a very short time to make the group the most active in the Big Horn Basin. In 1992, the John McIntosh family was selected by the Knights of Columbus for the prestigious state Catholic family of the year award. In the spring of the year, Altar Society successfully hosted the annual state Deanery convention.

During the decade of the 80’s, the following statistics were recorded: 145 baptisms, 130 first communions, 49 confirmations, 47 marriages, and 78 deaths. At the present time, 110 families comprise the parish, many of them single family members.

Maintenance continues with the replacement of an antiquated boiler and heating system.

Prospects for continued growth are evident at the end of the century approaches.

JUNE 1972--Parish Center was completed and dedicated.
JUNE 1975--Msgr. Philip Krass’ 45th Anniversary celebration.
JUNE 1975--Msgr. Philip Krass retired.
JUNE 1975--Msgr. Daniel Carroll was appointed as the new priest to St. Francis.
1977--Msgr. Daniel Carroll’s 40th Anniversary celebration.
1977--The church was redecorated under Msgr. Carroll’s supervision.
AUG. 1979--Msgr. Daniel Carroll took his retirement.
AUG. 1979--Father Vincent Bauer was appointed as the new priest to St. Francis.
JUNE 1980--Msgr. Philip Krass was honored on his 50th Anniversary.
MAY 1981--Duplex apartment owned by the parish was sold, and the Burnell property adjacent to the church was acquired through the efforts of Father Bauer.

Thermop Women 1961 1980
ST. FRANCIS ALTAR AND ROSARY SOCIETY PROJECTS

In 1961, the first Bridge Luncheon and Style Show was held and has become an annual event, taking place just before Easter.

The Harvest Dinner was started in 1970, and it has been a very popular event each October.

Meals on Wheels began in 1976, and the volunteers from the parish distribute meals from the Senior Citizens Center one-week in each month.

In November of 1980, the Altar Society hosted a breakfast for all the ladies of the parish and hope to make this an annual affair.

The Altar Society cooks and serves the breakfasts for the first communicants and their parents. The High School graduates are also honored with a breakfast each year.

Each Sunday after Mass, Mr. and Mrs. Doug Bennett serve coffee and rolls at the Parish Center, providing a very pleasant social hour for the parishioners.

Back to INDEX		Thermopolis 1970-1992 St. Francis Church As St. Francis parish entered the 1970’s, the pastor, Msgr. Philip Krass, observed the fortieth anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood. During his tenure thus far, a new church and parish house had been built and the parish was enjoying a term of relative prosperity without encumbrance of debt. By this time, it was also evident that a parish center was a necessity. CCD classes and organizational meetings were held in the basement of the parish house and in various small rooms in the church itself, including the boiler room. Recent new fire codes were forbidding such gatherings in areas with only one method of access. Bids for the center were accepted in 1971. With a final cost estimated at $100,000, St. Francis Parish Center was dedicated in October 1972. Bishop Hubert Newell and Msgr. Thomas O’Reilly of Casper represented the Diocese of Cheyenne at the dedication ceremonies. The center was the final necessary major capital building improvement for the parish. Msgr. Krass had been experiencing failing eyesight for some time and deteriorating health was added to the problem. By June of 1975, it was evident it would be in his best interest to retire and a replacement was named. Msgr. Krass remained in his post while Msgr. Daniel Carroll enjoyed a month’s vacation. Msgr. Krass made plans to move to a parish-owned house at 112 North 8th Street, across the street from the church. His sister, Sr. Norina Krass, who had assisted CCD instruction for many summers at the parish, arrived to care for him. He continued to celebrate early daily Mass at the church and also filled in for Msgr. Carroll during his absences. In 1980, Msgr. Krass observed the Golden Anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood. The celebration was held in the parish center with many dignitaries from across the state in attendance. The occasion was observed at a later date in Detroit, where Msgr. Krass had been born and ordained. He died in Thermopolis on August 11, 1984. Funeral services were held at St. Francis with burial following in Detroit. Msgr. Daniel Carroll was transferred from Powell and assumed his duties at St. Francis in July, 1975. He moved into the parish house with his sisters, Mary and Helen Carroll, as his housekeepers. During his tenure, the interior of St. Francis was remodeled with special emphasis placed on modernizing the sanctuary in accordance with Vatican Council II. Msgr. Carroll also oversaw the landscaping of the parish center. His tenure at St. Francis was of short duration. He announced his retirement in the summer of 1979 and retired to Greybull with his sisters, who continued to be his housekeepers. During this decade, 169 baptisms were recorded, 26 marriages were performed, 91 first communions were distributed, there were 93 confirmandi, and 89 deaths. Organizations included the Altar Society, the Knights of Columbus, the Catholic Youth Organization and CCD classes for grades one through twelve. Altar Society continued to be the most active with two major fund-raising projects each year, the annual fall harvest dinner and the spring bridge luncheon-style show. Mindful of their corporal duties to the parish, they continued to be one of the decreasing numbers of parishes to serve a dinner to mourners at funerals. The Knights held some activities and held monthly meetings at the parish center. CYO was not as active as in previous years, but events were scheduled for teens frequently. Upon her arrival in the parish, Sr. Norina undertook to direct the CCD program for the remainder of the decade. Father Vincent Bauer arrived at St. Francis in the summer of 1979. The financial status of the parish was sound with all major construction projects completed. During the next decade, a great deal of maintenance was required, a reassessment of the church-owned properties was necessary and projects to enhance the beauty of the buildings were implemented. The maintenance projects included repair of interior church beams in 1982, addition of ceiling insulation in 1983, repairs to the downtown J. C. Penny building, repairs to the rental property at 112 North 8th Street, pavement of parking lots at the church and parish center, painting the parish center, replacement of the church roof, painting and repair of the gutters and eaves of the church, and painting of the exterior window framing. After long negotiations with J. C. Penny concerning the local site, Fr. Bauer and the parish trustees concluded a contract for a period of five years. But in 1987, the company announced the closure of its operation in Thermopolis. The building has remained empty since that time. The beauty of the church was enhanced with installation of stained glass windows; the bid was awarded to a Chicago-based designer in 1983. The windows are regarded as unique and have caused comment throughout the region. A carillon bell system was installed in the church in 1988. A public address system was installed in the church in 1981. It allows better audio quality in a building already well known in the community for its fine acoustics. At this time it was also evident that a review of church-owned properties was necessary. Fr. Bauer sought advice from the legal quarter and a real estate agency. Meeting with the parish trustees, it was decided that repairs at the 735-739 Arapahoe Endres duplex were too extensive and the property was sold in 1981. At this same period, the Burnell property north of the church was offered for sale. It was purchased as possible parking space for the church. The house was purchased and removed to another site. The lot was properly contoured and paved. At the same time, a landscaping project at the church was completed. The Golden property south of Thermopolis offered the final challenge in the reassessment of church-owned real estate. In the early part of the decade, advice was offered to retain the parcel, but a legal survey, which placed a strong emphasis on mineral and water rights, was suggested. The process was lengthy, taking almost two years. Upon completion of the survey, an old building on the site was razed and the area was leveled. Some years later, the parcel was deemed a liability and was offered for sale. The property was sold in 1991 for $80,000. When Programs for People was introduced in the diocese by Bishop Joseph Hart, St. Francis participated. Though failing to meet the annual quota set by the chancery, sufficient funds remained in savings to supplement the drive. In August 1987, the Diocese of Cheyenne observed its centennial in Wyoming. St. Francis was an active participant in the events. A complete history of the church was compiled with many articles and pictures collected for the display at the Casper Events Center. In addition, an oral history was recorded and a video program was prepared. The CCD program was restructured in the early 1980’s with Mrs. Barbara Sullivan appointed as director. When she resigned because of poor health, the post was assumed by Madonna McIntosh, who retains the position at the present time. The program has received praise from the diocesan director for its excellence. Altar Society maintains an active position in church activities. An extra project was added to their agenda and the organization contributes heavily to the Madonna Plan through specialized efforts. In 1987, the Knights of Columbus achieved the highest membership quota in the state and received recognition at the state convention. The parish also adopted an active lay ministry. The program continues to improve. Several Eucharistic ministers assist Father Bauer and there are also a number of lay readers, including some CYO members. In 1991, the Synod was introduced. There has been active participation of various age groups. Many suggestions are being implemented to improve the spiritual, educational and social life of the parish. An audio-visual system has been added to the CCD program and is also used for other purposes in the parish. The Catholic Youth Organization has been revitalized. Two young couples are working with the teens in the parish and have succeeded in a very short time to make the group the most active in the Big Horn Basin. In 1992, the John McIntosh family was selected by the Knights of Columbus for the prestigious state Catholic family of the year award. In the spring of the year, Altar Society successfully hosted the annual state Deanery convention. During the decade of the 80’s, the following statistics were recorded: 145 baptisms, 130 first communions, 49 confirmations, 47 marriages, and 78 deaths. At the present time, 110 families comprise the parish, many of them single family members. Maintenance continues with the replacement of an antiquated boiler and heating system. Prospects for continued growth are evident at the end of the century approaches. JUNE 1972--Parish Center was completed and dedicated. JUNE 1975--Msgr. Philip Krass’ 45th Anniversary celebration. JUNE 1975--Msgr. Philip Krass retired. JUNE 1975--Msgr. Daniel Carroll was appointed as the new priest to St. Francis. 1977--Msgr. Daniel Carroll’s 40th Anniversary celebration. 1977--The church was redecorated under Msgr. Carroll’s supervision. AUG. 1979--Msgr. Daniel Carroll took his retirement. AUG. 1979--Father Vincent Bauer was appointed as the new priest to St. Francis. JUNE 1980--Msgr. Philip Krass was honored on his 50th Anniversary. MAY 1981--Duplex apartment owned by the parish was sold, and the Burnell property adjacent to the church was acquired through the efforts of Father Bauer. Thermop Women 1961 1980 ST. FRANCIS ALTAR AND ROSARY SOCIETY PROJECTS In 1961, the first Bridge Luncheon and Style Show was held and has become an annual event, taking place just before Easter. The Harvest Dinner was started in 1970, and it has been a very popular event each October. Meals on Wheels began in 1976, and the volunteers from the parish distribute meals from the Senior Citizens Center one-week in each month. In November of 1980, the Altar Society hosted a breakfast for all the ladies of the parish and hope to make this an annual affair. The Altar Society cooks and serves the breakfasts for the first communicants and their parents. The High School graduates are also honored with a breakfast each year. Each Sunday after Mass, Mr. and Mrs. Doug Bennett serve coffee and rolls at the Parish Center, providing a very pleasant social hour for the parishioners. Back to Top