ORISKA, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – 115 years ago, the cornerstone of St. Bernard’s Catholic Church was put in place, Bishop John Shanley (the first bishop of the Diocese of Fargo) performed the ceremony dedicating the construction start of the new structure in Oriska, North Dakota on July 31st, 1908. Three month later on November 11th, 1908, Bishop Shanley and several priests held a dedication of the new St. Bernard’s Church.

On Sunday, July 16th, 2023 the Most Rev. Bishop John Folda of the Diocese of Fargo, will celebrate the final Mass at 2:30pm. The church will be closed, the precious artifacts inside will be going to other Catholic churches and the building will be torn down later this year.

St. Bernard’s church board president Gary Baasch.

Baasch said the support from past members and others in surrounding communities is heartwarming.

Church Deacon Jim McAllister said the church represents so many memories for a number of families.

Pastor Fr. Brian Bachmeier will continue to serve St. Agatha’s Church in Hope, ND and Sacred Heart Church in Sanborn, ND following the closing of St. Bernard’s Church in Oriska, ND.

The full interview with Jim McAllister and Gary Baasch is attached below.