Even a pandemic couldn’t stop Marian Homes and their supporters from bringing their eighth group home for the intellectually disabled to fruition.
Two years ago, Marian Homes’ board of directors started plans to acquire an eighth group home. No one could have foreseen the challenges the COVID-19 pandemic would pose.
Bishop Michael F. Burbidge blessed the “Queen of Angels” home and all those present at the Jan. 15 grand opening in Fairfax.
Jim McHugh, president of Marian Homes, said during the ceremony that at the grand opening of the last home two years ago it was a hot and humid day. He hoped the next one wouldn’t be so hot. Cold weather, COVID-19, supply chain issues, price increases for materials, increased housing demands, and a lack of fundraising events were just some of the adversities Marian Homes had to overcome to acquire and renovate the newest group home.
Father James Barkett, pastor of St. Mary of Sorrows Church in Fairfax, thanked those in attendance for their dedication and support to create a home for the five men who live there.
Father Ed Guilloux, parochial vicar of All Saints Catholic Church in Manassas, was master of ceremonies. Members of KOVAR, the Virginia Knights of Columbus charity that has supported Marian Homes, were present as well as Knights from St. Mary of Sorrows Council 8600. The Color Corps provided by the Father Thomas A. Casey Assembly 3596 escorted the bishop.
