Bishop Peter Libasci visited St. Michael Church in Exeter on Sunday to celebrate Mass and bless the buildings that were part of the recently completed parish expansion and renovation.

Libasci praised the parish, which worked hard to restore and expand its base in the community. The bishop also managed to personally connect with members of the church, and the neighborhood, with greetings, waves and smiles as he walked along the streets in downtown Exeter.

Labasci's visit came at the beginning of a new era for St. Michael Parish, which had hoped to relocate to the former Fort Rock Farm. But after years of legal battles with local conservationists who wanted the farm preserved as open space, the church decided in 2009 to renovate its existing properties and relocate the rectory and St. Vincent de Paul Society to nearby buildings.

“It's been a labor of love,” said Diane O'Halloran, who redesigned the interior of the church with softer colors, new pews and brighter light.

Parishioners packed the 600-seat church for Sunday Mass, which was celebrated by Libasci, St. Michael pastor, Rev. Marc Montminy, and assistant pastor Rev. Christopher Martel.

In his sermon, Libasci offered the parish a vision of the balance between preserving nature and building a faith community.

“This church could not have been built unless we pieced the Earth and built a building,” he said. He recognized the parish's need to grow and expand its spiritual outreach and its programs that support the community.

“How holy is this day of promises, professions and faith,” he said. “How holy is this house.”

After Mass, Libasci, who was accompanied by an escort of the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus, visited three buildings that have been renovated for a variety of parish programs and organizations. He offered prayers and blessings at each site.

Libasci also took plenty of time to talk with individual members of the church, particularly a large group of altar boys and girls.

Members of St. Michael Church were happy to crowd around Libasci and help him learn a little about finding his way around Exeter.

“We only do these things once in a while,” said Father Martel. “Today's a great day, a blessed day.”