Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Construction boom in Marion and Sumter counties is revitalizing the Catholic Church in the northwest corner of the diocese, with an influx of young families invigorating faithful communities formerly dominated by elderly parishioners. Mary Lynn Martin, the director of religious education at St. Jude in Ocala, expressed excitement over the parish's growth, stating, "We’re very happy and growing and growing."

Further east, at St. Mark the Evangelist in Summerfield, Edith McDaniel, the director of religious education, highlighted the parish's efforts to accommodate the increasing number of young people seeking Sacramental preparation. McDaniel mentioned, "It gives parents a chance to really sit and listen to the homilies while their children are learning the same things on their own level elsewhere."

St. Lawrence Parish in Bushnell, located in Sumter County, has also seen significant growth, with director of religious education Jean Wilson preparing almost 50 students for the Sacraments of First Holy Communion and Confirmation. Wilson noted the increase in children attending Mass, stating, "We are seeing more children in the pews."

Meanwhile, St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Wildwood is experiencing substantial expansion, attracting new families working in various industries. Father John McCracken, parochial vicar, emphasized the importance of fostering community among the new parishioners, stating, "We want to make sure we don’t lose these men and women."

One of the parishioners, 17-year-old Maria Paula from Colombia, shared her experience of finding a welcoming community at St. Vincent de Paul, expressing gratitude for the warmth and positivity she encountered. Paula, now confirmed, hopes to share the love and faith she has found within the parish with others.

The growth in these Catholic parishes in Florida reflects the broader population increase in Marion and Sumter counties, with new construction and residential developments attracting young families to the region. The churches are adapting to accommodate the changing demographics and are dedicated to nurturing the spiritual journey of their expanding congregations.