Families Financially Support St. Adalbert Church & It is the Center of Social Activities

“By 1928, the amount families were expected to contribute was $15.00, with a ten cent pew rent taken in a separate collection . Now, to help offset the large debt, Father John asked for $3.00 per family per week for a total of $156 per year -- a sum that necessitated a severe sacrifice for most of those who were able to pay it” “Typical of this enthusiasm was an article that appeared on the first page of The Echo, the Polish language newspaper, on November 5, 1937: “Hey! Parish of St. Adalbert's! Did you hear of the big prizes to be given away at the party on November 7? Grand Rapids has never heard of what will take place at the party. So come anyway and win yourself a prize! See you there!” “During the 1940's, in particular, social activities were plentiful and thriving. It was as if the easing of the parish debt was accompanied by a lifting of the people's spirits. In the school recreational events were abundant, with a billiard room (located where the kitchen now is) and a bowling alley consisting of four lanes (located in what is now the cafeteria.) There were two leagues participating in the bowling at that time , one a men's league consisting of eight teams and the other a women's league comprised of four teams. Scores were kept, tournaments were conducted, and prizes were awarded to individuals as well as to teams; but most of all, the participants shared fun and laughter while mingling socially and enjoying the competition. In addition, plays were occasionally performed and movies shown to good sized crowds in the spacious auditorium.”