Article in Community Leader - October 2006

History

The Episcopal Church of S. Mary the Virgin began in 1890 with the memorial gift of a summer chapel. The granite structure was inspired by the Norman church of S. Mary's in Iffley, Oxfordshire, England.

The Norman tower was added in 1902, and, by 1950, the addition of the nave and narthex completed the church as it stands today. It seats some 150-180 people, and the richly-stained glass windows and well-chosen furnishings create a setting for both quiet services and joyous celebrations. During the past two decades, parishioners and friends have been making individually-designed needlepoint kneelers for each chair in the church. Designs from the kneelers have been drawn from the Old and New Testaments and include depictions of ancient crosses and many saints.

The Cassavant tracker organ was given in 1979 by the church founder's grandson. It is located in a gallery at the west end of the church, where there is seating for the choir.

S. Mary's three-acre wooded campus includes a separate Parish House with modern kitchen, auditorium with a stage, meeting rooms, and the Guild Room; a two-story, wood frame Rectory; a Churchyard; and memorial gardens.

S. Mary's became a legal parish in the Diocese of Maine in 1927.

S. Mary's parishioners live in Falmouth, Cumberland, Yarmouth, Portland, and other nearby communities. Average attendance at Sunday services is 150 adults and children. A lively Christian Education program provides a Family Chapel service, Sunday School classes and Rite-13/Journey to Adulthood programs.

Parishioners are involved in all aspects of church life, and there are ever-evolving opportunities to explore any interest in the context of a nurturing Christian community.