About Our Lady of Sorrows

Our Lady of Sorrows parish has a rich history rooted in the Franciscan Spirituality with a robust Slovakian flavor. The parish has deep roots as an original shrine, called the Seven Dolors Shrine. In 1967 Bishop Grutka approached the Friars and asked if the would be willing to become a parish. The parish was established in October of 1967, thirty-six years after it was dedicated by Bishop Noll in 1931. This rich tradition is vividly displayed in the artwork in the church most of which was designed and, in many cases, painted by Joseph Cincik.
As the vocations declined for the Franciscan community which established and developed the rich traditions, the decision was made by the Friars to withdraw from the parish. As vocations declined, so did the interest and attendance at the Shrine events. In 1996 the diocese took over the buildings and 12 acres of the property. Balance of the property was sold to a development company, and is now a thriving residential community. The parish is an active community that is dedicated to the religious reduction of their children, works of charity, prayerful liturgies and community building activities.