During the long pastorate of Father Bay, 1912 - 1927 the change from old to new was accelerated and, along with the rest of the world, St. Mary's parishioners became involved with the events of "The Great War".

Among other events a Red Cross unit was formed and all helped to make bandages for overseas hospitals.

At the close of the war, plans were made for a new school and convent to be built on the land donated by Georg Obenauf.

Confirmation Celebration
October 15, 1926

Rev. Francis Bay is just to the left of Bishop E.F. Hoban