Archbishop Thomas Donnellan June 22 dedicated the new Church of St. George in Newnan.

The handsome new brick building is a dual purpose structure. Attached to the attractive church is a bright spacious hall and kitchen. The church will seat approximately 200 people.

“This is a center for the whole man,” said Father Clem Tackney, who preached the homily.

Father Tackney was pastor of the Newnan Mission for 13 years. Under his initial efforts the parish grew from a handful to the present population of 75 families. He is now in Orangeburg, S.C.

Father Tackney’s remarks describing the church centered on the fact that the building could be used for various purposes–religious, educational, social.

Father Luke Doheny, who took over as pastor in 1967, pointed out that the church has been designed and nursed along by many parishioners who gave time and talent to its construction. “I think this has a lot to do with the tremendous spirit that unites the parish,” Father Doheny said.

Following the dedication ceremony, a reception for some 500 persons was held in the church hall. During the remainder of the afternoon visitors from other Christian churches in the Newnan area stopped in to see the new building.

Father Joseph Freund, C.S.S.R., also participated in the ceremonies.

Mrs. Ellis Mansour, a founder and the oldest living member of the church, was an honored guest at the dedication ceremony and reception.

James J. Thomasson, manager of the Newnan Times-Herald, also attended.