History

The first recorded Mass on Fishers Island was in 1893 at the old schoolhouse, now the Fishers Island Library, and it was led by Reverend John Ferry. Father Ferry was the first resident priest from 1899-1903 and was commissioned as the Army Chaplain. Prior to that time, priests from the St. James Pro-Cathedral of Long Island, would travel to Fishers Island to celebrate Mass from May through October.

In 1911 Father Joesph McLaughlin was chosen as the first year-round Pastor and the congregation numbered 450 parishioners. It was largely comprised of soldiers from the Fort Wright complex and the summer church attendance increased to 1,000 parishioners.

Additional historical highlights include:

• 1913 - OLOG Rectory was constructed
• 1950 - The church basement, now rummage area, was added to the building
• 1957 - A new altar was dedicated, made possible by the Altar & Rosary Association and a bronze tabernacle was donated by A. John Gada, Trustee & Family
• 1958 - Additional statues and new parking area were donated to OLOG

All are welcome to worship at Our Lady of Grace, and we are pleased to announce our newly installed addition of an ADA-compliant ramp for our parishioners.

*Historical facts graciously provided by James Wall and photo credits provided by Jane Ahrens + Gina Scumaci.