DALLAS — Gate of Heaven Church on Machell Street in Dallas continues to serve the people of the Back Mountain not only with weekly services, but with a variety of programming geared to young and old.
The church, a sister church to Our Lady of Victory Church, Harveys Lake, provides numerous opportunities for spiritual growth throughout the week and throughout the year.
Recently, its community room was filled with those attending a Bingo event to benefit the church’s St. Vincent De Paul Fund and Altar & Rosary Society.
The event, which reflects the church’s commitment to its members and to benefiting the community, provided not only a bit of friendly competition, but gift baskets, refreshments and an opportunity for fellowship.
Father Daniel Toomey, pastor at both churches, said the event and others like it embodies the church’s continuing commitment to both faith and family.
The priest, who is always ready to take a moment to encourage a parishioner or say hello to a staff member, came to his vocation following a unique path.
Now 56, Toomey was first an army officer and felt called to be a priest from the time he was a freshman in college.
After nine-and-a-half years in the military, he was prepared to assume his role as a clergyman, but not before spending some time as a civilian.
“I spent some time in Washington, D.C. doing the same job I did in the Army,” he said, laughing.
Ordained at 40, Toomey said it’s not uncommon for people to change directions mid-life.
“Some people buy a sports car,” he said, again laughing. “I became a priest.”
Marc Smulowitz, a member of the parish council, said Toomey came to the church in 2009 when both Gate of Heaven and Our Lady of Victory Church seemed to consolidate.
It never happened, he said, but it was a stressful time for members of both parishes.
“I guess it took an Army officer during a tough time to get things done,” Smulowitz said.
Smulowitz said Toomey always puts the focus on helping those in attendance and supporting those in leadership.
“He’s a man who listens and acts,” he said.
Carol Carroll, missionary liaison, said the church is committed to supporting those in need in the Back Mountain.
For example, she said, when the men’s homeless shelter comes to Camp Orchard Hill at Easter and Christmas, the churches raise money and provide items that are needed.
A pro-life committee at the church reaches out to other organizations and works to support pregnant mothers in need.
Those picking up the church bulletin can find a variety of outreaches available, including several choirs, bible studies, a liturgical team, evangelization team and a mission outreach.
A favorite of among women in the church, Carroll said, is a group called Moms of Prayer and Service, gathering to pray and assist those in need.
Throughout the year, the church hosts a golf tournament, a parish picnic, a gingerbread house contest and a youth ministry.
“There is something here for everyone,” said Toomey.
The church has an active Facebook page and recently introduced an app that will keep attendees informed about happenings at the church.
“It’s called Flock Notes,” said Smulowitz, “and you can choose what information you want to receive, by text or email.”
The church, a part of the Scranton Diocese, also participates in diocese-wide events and opportunities.
Toomey and his team hope to get the word out that the church is still vibrant.
When the Gate of Heaven School closed in 2011, those moving to the area were not informed of the church’s existence.
Toomey said the church, which is off the beaten path and might not look like a church from the street, now wants to let families know it is there and is a church that focuses both on faith and family with a variety of programs and events.
