In the Roman Catholic liturgy, the date of the dedication of a church is honored. Mass in that church on its anniversary date can be celebrated as a Solemnity -- the highest ranking of liturgical days.
On Ascension Thursday, May 7, 1959, the church was formally dedicated by Bishop William P. O'Connor of the Diocese of Madison.
The ceremony began at noon and was followed by a Mass offered by Msgr. Ferdinand Mack, the first pastor of St. Bernard parish, who was assisted by Fr. Alfred Endres and Fr. August Buenzli, both listed as curates at St. Bernard.