HAPPY TIMES—The Rev. David Galletly, pastor of St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church, will celebrate the church’s 50th anniversary with his congregation this month. NANCY NEEDHAM/Acorn Newspapers Past achievements and the future potential of St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church in Thousand Oaks will be the focus of the church’s 50-year anniversary celebration.

A variety of events during the week of St. Patrick’s Day this month will commemorate the anniversary.

In 1960, four years before Thousand Oaks became a city, a group of friends came together in a rented basement to worship. St. Columba’s Episcopal Church in Camarillo sponsored the small congregation and gave the group mission status. The Rev. James England Jr. was appointed vicar.

The church’s outreach and activism also began that year with the opening of the Mad Attic Thrift Shop, which is still serving the Conejo Valley. A year later, St. Patrick’s Day School was created.

In 1960, the diocesan standing committee also approved plans to build a church. Early Thousand Oaks residents Bill and Janet Rothschild donated land.

In 1961 construction on the house of worship at 1 Church Road began. It was completed the following year, said the Rev. David Galletly, church rector.

The sanctuary’s stained glass windows covering six walls were completed in 1979. The stained glass art includes Bible stories such as the Garden of Eden and Abraham’s covenant. The windows also depict saints and events from church history, such as Martin Luther’s Reformation. The life of Jesus Christ is portrayed from birth to resurrection.

In 2004 a new school building was added. It currently serves 130 students from kindergarten through sixth grade.

“We want to celebrate our anniversary with the community,” Galletly said.

The public is invited to the anniversary activities.

“There will be lots of green,” Galletly said.

The week of festivities begins with a 9 a.m. Sun., March 14 service focusing on the church’s history and an expression of gratitude. The service will be followed by a champagne brunch.

At 7 p.m. Thurs., March 18, “And God Came to Ireland,” a film about the life of St. Patrick, will be shown and a discussion will follow. The film depicts the life of St. Patrick and features Celtic music and the scenery of Ireland.   On Fri., March 19, a celebration of jazz and other types of music featuring local musicians will take place.

“I don’t know what that has to do with St. Patrick’s Day, but it will be fun,” Galletly said.   St. Patrick’s 50th Anniversary Dinner and Silent Auction will be on Sat., March 20. The gala will be black tie optional.   The festivities will conclude with an Irish Celtic service at 9 a.m. Sun., March 21. For more information, call (805) 495-6441.