Following the 2005 hurricane, Old St. Pat's created the Harbor of Hope program, and partnered with the people of St. Clare Parish in Waveland, Mississippi.
"The eye of the storm passed right over Waveland, Mississippi. For those of us who have had the opportunity to get out there, everything is gone. You saw pictures, but when you're there, it's absolutely shocking, startling," said one minister speaking to parishioners Sunday.
For last five years, volunteers taking part in Harbor of Hope have supported the people of St. Clare parish on their journey to recovery.
After Sunday's mass, Old St. Pat's held a Mardi Gras-style reception to mark the anniversary and celebrate their dedication.
"Once their church is built, there's less of a financial need, but there's always a need to connect with people and to see what can happen. But this is the formal end to Harbor of Hope," Cusick said.
St. Clare's parish and community center will be dedicated next month, thanks in part to the volunteers from Old St. Pats.
