MOUNT HOLLY — A special Mass commemorating the feast of St. Patrick will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, March 17, at Old St. Joseph Church in Mount Holly.
Hosted by the Ancient Order of Hibernians and the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, the annual Mass pays tribute to the historic church’s founding pastor, Father T.J. Cronin, who was Irish born and is buried in the adjacent church cemetery.
Built in 1843 by Irish immigrants, it is one of the oldest Catholic churches still standing in the state and is an official state and U.S. historical site. Prayers at the graveside of Father Cronin will be said prior to Mass in the church, located at N.C. 273 and Sandy Ford Road.
— SueAnn Howell