The mission of this organization shall be to preserve and maintain the buildings and grounds of the Shrine of St. Francis Xavier, bordering, in part, the cemetery, and commonly known as Old Bohemia, together with its history and traditions, as a living monument to early Catholicism on the Delmarva Peninsula and to maintain the sanctity of the site with attention to the ecclesiastical heritage of the property. 

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St. Francis Xavier Shrine "Old Bohemia" is a church steeped in history, religious beliefs and tradition. For more than 300 years, the Catholic faith has been lived, celebrated and cherished here. Our young and old have lifted up their prayers and praises to God as well as their concerns, hopes, failures, and dreams.

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We are grateful for the obvious blessings of a rich heritage and this meaningful place to worship. Our responses to the social changes and cultural circumstances should be respectful of the experiences of our ancestors.

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May this sacred shrine, and all it holds, be an example of what has been handed down to us by our predecessors in the Catholic faith. 

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We ask for your prayers for Old Bohemia as we meet the challenges that lie ahead.

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We are called to be faithful during our moment in history.

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With the guidance of our savior, Jesus Christ and the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the community at Old Boh will face the future with faith, hope, and charity.