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Parish Growth and Leadership Transitions
The next major improvement to Holy Trinity Parish was the construction of a stone rectory, which began in 1923 under the leadership of Fr. Haefele. Once again, parishioners contributed both financially and through their labor, helping to keep costs to $14,500. The former parish house was relocated north of the stone school and renovated to serve as a convent for the Benedictine Sisters. Fr. Haefele worked tirelessly alongside the laborers and continually inspired the community with his dedication. However, due to declining health, he was forced to resign as pastor on May 1, 1931.
Fr. E.R. Embleau succeeded Fr. Haefele and brought new energy to the parish, including the formation of the Holy Name Society. A stone garage was added next to the rectory at a cost of $1,200, and the school basement was converted into a fully functional dining hall. Following Fr. Embleau’s passing in 1937, Fr. William Landwehr briefly served as administrator until Fr. John J. O’Keefe was appointed pastor on June 18, 1938.
Parish Life in the 1940s and 1950s
Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, the annual chicken dinner and carnival became the parish’s main fundraising event, drawing large crowds and strengthening community ties. Another cherished tradition was the end-of-the-year school picnic, a festive occasion for families held at the Clarence Schweiger farm near 87th Street.
During his pastorate, Fr. O’Keefe and the parishioners worked diligently to raise funds for a pipe organ. Their efforts were rewarded when the organ was installed and played for the first time during Christmas Mass. Sadly, Fr. O’Keefe became seriously ill and passed away in 1951. In his memory, a shrine to Our Lady of Fatima was erected as a final gift to the parish.
Fr. William O’Shea served as temporary administrator from August 1951 to September 1952. He was succeeded by Fr. Francis Staab, under whose leadership the Mother’s Club was established. In later years, this organization evolved into the Parent-Teacher Organization (P.T.O.), which played a vital role in supporting the school. The group raised funds and fostered community by organizing card parties and social events for parish families.
Next: A Time of Growth
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