Posted June 6, 2023

Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving for the 150^th anniversary of Saint Agnes School in West Chester (Chester County) on Sunday, June 4. Archbishop Pérez served as Pastor of Saint Agnes Parish (2009-2012) prior to Pope Benedict XVI appointing him Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Rockville Centre in 2012.

In 1872, under the Episcopal leadership of Most Reverend James F. Wood, the 5^th Bishop of Philadelphia and 1^st Archbishop of Philadelphia, Reverend John J. Wall, and parishioners of Saint Agnes Church, Saint Agnes Parochial School was established. Archbishop Wood asked the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, whose motherhouse was located in West Chester to staff the school. The Sisters remain a graced presence in the parish community. (Photos: Sarah Webb)