What’s distinctive about your parish? What is your parish’s charism?
Our parish is oriented toward service to the poor. Our outreach program helps dozens of families, especially at Christmas time, and all year long. Hundreds of bags of clothes donated to the church are picked up by clients from social services. We provide shoes and clothing for children and adults, and the clients choose what they need or want. We also do monthly food drives. Because we’re so small, to get as many volunteers as we do is really great. We try to get the youths involved whenever they can in community projects. Our volunteers step in wherever they can and help families in need. For being so small, we have a really good group of volunteers.
What’s the one unique thing visitors to your parish should do or see while there?
We have a Memorial Brick Garden, with a beautiful statue of Mother Mary and a bench to sit and pray as you enjoy the great mountain views. We’re right on Route 29 in Madison so we’re visible as a Catholic Church on both sides of the road. We get a lot of people who think our place is beautiful and stop in. There are many people who have passed it several times and have decided to stop in because they go back and forth on 29.
Is there a special way your parish encourages and supports faith formation?
Perhaps it’s related to sacramental preparation and RCIA. We are a small parish, so sacramental prep and RCIA participants receive personal attention. Prior to COVID-19, we had a variety of different educational programs for adults, as well as a youth group that we try to hold together as best we can. There is a senior group and a women’s group that meet monthly. Our Lady of the Blue Ridge usually offers a Sunday school for grades K-12. This was discontinued because of COVID-19, but resumed in September. Oftentimes, youths drop out of these programs after they’re confirmed, but here, many of the youths stay on through high school.
What would a visitor say about your parish, and how do new parishioners get involved?
We are a very family-oriented parish and welcome any volunteers. We post in the bulletin when volunteers are needed.
What’s something we should know about your clergy?
Our pastor, Father Jim Bruse is a dedicated pastor and very much a people person. He loves socializing with parishioners and visiting their homes.
Is there a standout or longtime staff member or volunteer you’d like to tell us about?
Ruth Kulick has volunteered with our outreach program for many years. She dedicates her life to helping the poor.
Quick Facts:
Our Lady of the Blue Ridge
629 Lonnie Burke Rd.
Madison
540/948-4144
Pastor: Fr. James C. Bruse
Mass Schedule:
Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.
Saturday vigil: 5 p.m.
Sunday 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m.
Social Media:
Facebook @OLBRCC
Year Established: 1977
Total Parishioners: 411
