Come celebrate history at the Old Mission

CATALDO– The Old Mission State Park will be hosting the 84th consecutive Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Wednesday morning.

The event has become a staple of the Old Mission as it celebrates part of the rich history surrounding the oldest building in Idaho and its vast array of inhabitants.

“This is the 84th consecutive year of the annual pilgrimage of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe and celebration of the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary,” Old Mission State Park ranger Kathleen Durfee said. “The event celebrates the tribe, its return to the river, and commemorates Chief Circling Raven, in addition to the outdoor mass.”

Durfee further added to the history of event by expounding on the story of Chief Circling Raven. “About 150 years before the Jesuit Missionaries met the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Circling Raven told his people of his vision about a man with a white face dressed in a black robe, a black hat, and necklace with a cross,” she explained. “This man was coming to tell the Coeur d’Alene people about the Great Spirit, and they were to watch for him. Many years later, the tribe met the black robes and embraced a new religion and melded it with their own beliefs.”

The event will begin Tuesday evening with a night of camping for those who wish to camp, but Wednesday is when the real festivities begin.

Starting with Mass at 11 a.m., followed by a lunch, and mini pow-wow– the event is looking to be a celebration for the ages.

For more information, contact the Old Mission State Park at 208-682-3814.