About Seven Dolors Parish
From the clock that graces the bell tower to the carved oak pews and communion rails. Church of the Seven Dolors in Albany is a church steeped in symbolism and tradition.
Adorned with a 37-foot high center alter and 18 stained-glass windows, Seven Dolors has not changed substantially since it was constructed in 1889. A smaller Altar of Sacrifice was added in 1968 as part of the changes brought about by the Second Vatican Council.
Seven Dolors' name is a testament to the strong faith of its early Catholic parishioners. The parish was established in 1868. Its dedication to "Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows," stems form the experience of parishioner Simon Gretsch, who was called upon by the Dolorous Mother for help as a bucket of dirt that had slipped its pulley hurled toward him while he stood in the bottom of the well he was digging. The rope became entangled and the bucket's fall halted.
A grateful Gretsch, and his wife, had friends from Bavaria bring a Statue of the Seven Dolors to the parish, according to parish history. The statue now stands in one of the church's side chapels.
Seven Dolors is a reference to the Seven Sorrows of the Virgin Mary. In addition to being represented in the Gretsches' statue, they are each represented in the church's high altar--Presentation, Flight in to Egypt, Finding Jesus in the Temple, Way of the Cross, Crucifixion, Removal of Jesus from the Cross and the Burial of Jesus.
Built of butternut, the main altar is complemented by the side altars dedicated to St. Gertrude and to St. Joseph. Side Chapels dedicated to The Sorrow Mother and Infant of Prague.
Despite its rich history, Seven Dolors' vision for the future isits 2,283 members.
Church committees are examining the need for the addition of a gathering place and entry are for the church. It could provide handicapped accessibility for the church and restrooms as well as space for hospitality after church events.
Seven Dolors has been led by the Rev. Corwin Collins, OSB, for 16 years. He is assisted by Sister Alice Imdieke, who serves as religious education coordinator, and Joan Gruenke who directors music ministries for the church.
Joan Gruenke serves as the church's Eucharistic minister for shut-ins and Cindy Nienaber is the parish nurse.
An 11-member liturgy committee meets on second Thursday of each month to direct development of the church's weekday and weekend liturgies.
Other Organizations within the church are the St. Joseph and St. Anne's societies, which meet the second Monday of each month, and the Knights of Columbus, which meets the last Monday of each Month
Information: (320) 845-2705