BARRY’S BAY – Father Mervin Coulas spent his 50th anniversary of ordination to the priesthood encouraging the community to pray for vocations.
The parish priest of St. Lawrence O’Toole Parish in Barry’s Bay spent June 2 surrounded by area priests, deacons and congregation members. That afternoon, a special Mass was celebrated at the local church.
Hundreds of people filled the pews to worship, and congratulate Fr. Coulas on his dedicated 50 years of service.
An honour guard, consisting of the Sir Knights of Columbus from both the Canadian Martyr and Bishop Smith assemblies, led the procession into the church.
From there, Leo Coulas and Marie Finnerty gave the readings and Father Lacey of Eganville provided the homily.
Fr. Lacey spoke of how Fr. Coulas was ordained by Bishop Smith at St. Hedwig Parish on May 29, 1963.
“Countless hosts have been consecrated by your hands for distribution to the people. Countless lives have received the blessings of the church from your hands,” Fr. Lacey said. “God’s life has been encouraged to shine brightly in the lives of many people through your instruction.”
Fr. Coulas was born in Renfrew on June 25, 1938.
His religious life started early, when he attended Mass frequently with his family. He later became an alter boy, and after high school decided to enter the seminary in Toronto.
Story continues in the June 3, 2013 issue of The Valley Gazette.