As early as 1875, ladies of St. Mary’s formed an Altar Society; in 1908, they added the Ladies Benevolent Association, and in 1817, the Miriam Club. Other groups followed, including the St. Vincent’s Sewing Group, Altar Sewing Sacristans, Our Lady’s Volunteers, and Rectory Volunteers. Each group enrolled ladies whose skills could help manage a particular parish need - everything from sewing Altar linens to upkeep at St. Mary’s Cemetery.  

In 1934, the various groups and responsibilities were aligned and coordinated under one organization, with Mrs. Winifred Hubley serving as the first president. In 1942, at the suggestion of then-Pastor Monsignor Thomas Shannon, the group was named the “Guild of St. Pascal.” In 1979, the name “Guild of St. Mary” was adopted as members wished to better identify their roles within the Parish. 

For many years, the Guild met as one group, and all women of the parish were invited to be members. By 1960, the growing size of this group limited the opportunity for more personal relationships among the large group of women. Circles, smaller groups within the Guild were organized, initially, around neighborhoods, then later around special interests of their members. Today, women of the parish are welcome to join a Circle that best reflects them. Circles may have a unique focus and can meet with varying frequencies and times to accommodate their members better. Those ladies who wish to support the work of the Guild at large but who do not wish to join an individual Circle are welcome to become part of the St. Vincent de Paul group (once considered Sustaining Members). Over 400 women of the Church of St. Mary are active members. A reflection of the continued generosity of time and spirit of the women of our parish.    

 Various ministries, spiritual, service, and social, are organized within the Guild. Among them are Guild Rosaries and Meditations, Christmas Sharing Tree, Advent Wreath Making and Blessing, Baby Jesus Birthday Celebration, Christmas Brunch, Boutique and Cookie Walk, Senior Citizen Luncheon with School of St. Mary, Easter Sharing Baskets, Spring Mass & Brunch, Donut Sundays, Funeral Luncheons, Wedding Ministry, Most Blessed Trinity Soup Kitchen and Food Pantry, and Camp Hope.

Circles volunteer to provide the necessary efforts to execute these events and activities. 

The Guild continues to adapt to provide support to the current needs of our parish community. In addition to the Guild Activities, Circles may organize personal service projects that align with the parish and community.