Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church
The Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church offers a magnificent and peaceful space for those seeking fellowship while visiting Put-in-Bay and South Bass Island. Both locals and tourists appreciate the stately beauty of this historic stone church. The Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church is home for the Catholic community on Put-in-Bay. The Church welcomes everyone from year round residents to summer guests that come up for the weekend.
Church Details
📍 Location: 632 Catawba Avenue, near the Erie Islands Branch Library, Put-in-Bay High School, and Town Hall
⛪ Mass Schedule (Summer Season):
– Wednesdays & Saturdays – 5:30 PM
– Sundays – 10:30 AM
✨ Welcoming Community:
– Open to year-round residents and summer visitors
– Popular venue for weddings, baptisms, and funerals
– Provides a place of fellowship during the winter months
📌 Other Places of Worship on the Island:
– St. John at the Bay Lutheran Church
– St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
Mother of Sorrows is a popular spot for weddings and baptisms with ceremonies for both locals and long-time visitors. Funerals are also regularly held here.
The church also sponsors the popular Put-in-Bay Pooch Parade. Held every May, canines and their human companions parade through the streets of downtown. Compete for prizes awarded in several categories and enjoy this cat-free event.
Annual Events & Community Involvement
🐶 Put-in-Bay Pooch Parade (Every May)
– A fun, pet-friendly parade through downtown
– Prizes awarded in multiple categories
🏃 Annual 15K Race (Every Fall)
– A challenging and scenic race
– Takes place during peak fall foliage season
⛵ Miller Boat Race
– A challenging course around the island
– Proceeds help support the church
History of Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church
Put-in-Bay rose to prominence in the mid-1800’s. After it gained nationwide attention during the War of 1812 and the Battle of Lake Erie, this lovely little island steadily grew in population throughout the century. Besides its lovely setting and proximity to the mainland, South Bass Island was also ideal for grape growing and the wine business thrived here.
🏝️ Put-in-Bay’s Growth in the 1800s:
– After the Battle of Lake Erie (War of 1812), the island gained popularity
– By 1866, vineyards and wine production became the main industry
– In 1876, Put-in-Bay was officially incorporated as a village
⛪ Church Establishment & Expansion:
– 1876: Catholic residents held services in homes until a small church was built
– 1928: The current church was completed, featuring:
— A stunning rose window
— A stone sanctuary and parish
— A beautiful lawn, ideal for wedding photos
💖 A Place of Community & Fellowship
– Families return year after year for services and special events
– Provides social connection during the winter months
This church enjoys a special place in many people’s hearts. Families, whether they reside on the Bass Islands year round or visit during the summer, return to this place again and again. Community and fellowship is paramount to this wonderful house of worship.
🌟 A Year-Round Place of Worship & Fellowship 🌟
Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church remains a pillar of faith and community on Put-in-Bay, offering spiritual guidance, fellowship, and cherished traditions for both locals and visitors. It is one of two churches on the island, along with St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, and is a proud member of the Put-in-Bay community. It’s one of the few places mentioned on this website that operate year round.
It acts not only as a place of worship for the island’s Catholic community, but also as a place of fellowship over the winter, when it is no small task to get to the mainland. The community gathers here for many events providing much needed socialization!
Other Things to Do in Put-in-Bay
Beyond visiting Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church, Put-in-Bay offers a variety of exciting attractions and activities for all interests. Explore Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial, where you can take in breathtaking views from the 352-foot-tall column. Stroll through Downtown Put-in-Bay, home to charming shops, delicious restaurants, and lively entertainment.
For outdoor enthusiasts, South Bass Island State Park and Oak Point State Park offer beautiful picnic spots, nature trails, and fishing areas. Thrill-seekers can embark on a biplane or helicopter tour from the Put-in-Bay Airport, while history buffs will enjoy the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society Museum.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, rent a Put-in-Bay golf cart and cruise around the island at your own pace. With so much to see and do, every visit to Put-in-Bay promises an unforgettable adventure!
See you at the bay!! 😊