The annual church service was held at St. Raphael Roman Catholic Church in Richard, August 7. The service was officiated by Father Ramel Macapala.
In the early years when the closest Roman Catholic Church was in North Battleford, and the homesteaders had to travel with either oxen or horses, it was almost impossible to go to church very often. Some good missionary priest would visit people in their homes about once a year and celebrate Mass, thus giving each a chance to make their Easter duties.
In 1907 or 1908, a little church was built in a Belgian settlement called Luxembourg. Father Peronnet was their priest. This church was about three or four miles from where Hafford now is. Later, when the railroad was built and Hafford came into existence, this little church was moved into the village keeping the same name, St. Solange Church. This church was still quite far away for Richard residents.
The railroad went through Richard in 1913 and a village quickly came into being. Besides the English speaking people, there were quite a few French Catholics in the village and district. Among these were: the Richards, Cyrs, Labrecques, Becottes, Boutins, Berubes, Lequieas, Pouparts and perhaps a few others who may have been forgotten. All wanted their church services which they finally did have about 1914 in the Municipal Hall.
Then a ladies' church group was formed called "Ladies of the Altar". These ladies really worked hard putting on card parties, raffles, fowl suppers, etc. anything that would bring in some money towards building a church. In 1915 their work bore fruit. The church was finally built and the name "St. Raphael" was chosen.
In 1964, a school house was bought at Mayfair and turned into a church. In the meantime, the mission churches in Denholm, Maymont and Fielding were closed and many families from the Maymont area started coming to the church at Richard. The only difference now is that church is only held once a year; I don't know all the particulars on why that has happened.
After the church service Sunday, a potluck supper was held in the hall with entertainment by Mel Deagnon, Tom Caldwell and Father Ramel Macapala.
Radisson Exhibition: thank you, Radisson. We had a wonderful time at your first time Jamboree. What talent, including our own Tom Caldwell, Mel Deagnon and Howard Bulmer! Good job, guys. You make the village proud.
If you're a bike rider, don't forget to mark your calendar for Saturday, August 20, for the Maymont Bike Rally. All are welcome to come for breakfast. Registration is from 9 to 11 a.m.. The $20 fee includes a steak supper and cash prizes. Everyone is welcome, whether you want to ride or not. Riders' prizes include a leather jacket, leather vest, Ghostrider prizes and cash. Contact Brian, 306-441-4761, or Dawn, 306-389-2055.
Legends 2011 are coming. Circle October 15 on your calendar; new talent is heading your way.
