RUMFORD – A yearlong celebration of the centenary of the laying of the cornerstone for St. Athanasius and St. John Catholic Church kicks off later this month with a display of church photograph collages and a breakfast served by church youth.

Although the cornerstone, located on the left of the Main Street side of the church, was laid in 1905, it would take nearly 21 more years for the massive stone, granite and brick church to be completed.

Doris Bourret, chairwoman of the Centenary Committee, said her group of eight began planning the series of events in October. Although all activities have not yet been set, the committee expects that Bishop Gerry Malone will end the celebratory year in December with a special Mass accompanied by an honor guard from the Knights of Columbus.

Students from the church’s school will hang banners announcing the 100th anniversary on Jan. 21. Bourret said they will design the banner as well.

The first event, on Jan. 23, is a youth-served breakfast after the 9:30 a.m. Mass. All proceeds will go toward the youth group’s trip in August to see the pope when he leads a youth ministry in Germany.

About a dozen photo collages depicting the building and history of the church will be unveiled at that time.

February’s events will focus on honoring all couples who have been married for at least 50 years at Masses and receptions on Feb. 12 and 13.

The church will host the annual ecumenical World Day of Prayer on March 4. On March 8 and March 12, the laying of the cornerstone will be discussed in the context of Christ as cornerstone of the church.

A Christian magic show is planned for May 1 during the feast of St. Athanasius. Seventh-graders at the school plan to research the saint’s life and make a presentation on it.

Also in the works are plans for a golf tournament, a centennial dance, a procession to mark the Feast of Corpus Christi, a play depicting the history of the school, as well a several other events.

“We’re looking to have a good time and help support groups,” said Bourret.