OLM’s 50th Celebration

A Golden Celebration

OLM’s 50th Anniversary Extravaganza!

Setting the Stage

On Saturday, February 22nd, 2025, a dedicated team of approximately 20 volunteers, from diverse nationalities and backgrounds, transformed a standard function room at The One Hotel Chamartin in Madrid. Their mission: to create an anniversary ambiance for OLM’s highly anticipated 50th Anniversary Party. The transformation set the scene for an event to remember. The work was finessed by volunteers just before we opened the doors on Sunday.

A Day of Celebration

Sunday, February 23rd, 2025, dawned bright and celebratory. At 11 am, as the entrance hymn especially composed by Carlos from the choir rang out, Pastor Father Ron, alongside 11 guest priests, including six Jesuits, processed into church to celebrate a special Mass. The OLM choir’s beautiful music enriched the liturgy, while Father Ron’s homily provided a captivating journey through OLM’s 50-year history. He fondly recalled the founder, Father Ray Sullivant, and shared personal anecdotes from his early years as Pastor, culminating in reflections on the vibrant present-day community. The Mass concluded with a spontaneous and heartfelt tribute from Father Alex Llanera, which sparked a resounding ovation for Father Ron.

The Party Begins

Following the Mass, approximately 255 adults and 46 children, guided by dedicated ushers, made their way to The One Hotel’s Salon Madrid. Meredith and Emeke, our efficient ticket management team, ensured a smooth entry. At 1 pm, the doors opened, revealing a breathtaking spectacle of gold, white, and black balloons and banners.

MCs Judy & Janet warmly welcomed the guests, and Father Ron offered a blessing before the feast began. Guests enjoyed a delicious array of hot and cold tapas, while the children savoured pasta or chicken and chips, followed by chocolate cake. Under the guidance of CCD teacher Magda, the children engaged in a creative art project, the results of which are captured in the attached photo.

Memories and Festivities

The celebration was more than just a social gathering; it was a celebration of joy! A video montage, created by parish videographers Lucille and Donal, showcased OLM’s rich history, eliciting smiles and nostalgia. A photo booth captured new memories, while Ian’s ‘Thanksgiving Wall’ provided an opportunity for guests to express their gratitude to OLM. The merchandise table, offering anniversary mugs and magnets, proved popular, and the door prize draw, featuring 15 fantastic prizes, including a tablet and book tokens from The Secret Kingdoms, added an element of excitement.

Heartfelt Speeches

No anniversary celebration is complete without speeches. Pilar Kurtis, Mike Schneider, Handy K, and David Franklin delivered insightful and moving addresses, sharing stories of OLM’s early days, its evolution over the past 25 years, the strong sense of community, and the welcoming embrace extended to immigrant parishioners

A Musical Finale

As families began to depart around 4 pm, the festivities continued with a lively singalong. Alex, Jose, Carlos, Santi, and Dani, created a vibrant atmosphere, encouraging guests to sing along to beloved party favourites. The evening concluded with a collaborative clean-up effort, marking the end of a truly memorable celebration.

Gratitude and Anticipation

The OLM 50th Anniversary Party was a resounding success, thanks to the dedication and hard work of countless volunteers both on the day and during the previous months . The celebration was a testament to the strong community spirit that defines OLM. Stay tuned for future events as OLM continues to celebrate its 50th year!