Leo XIII, at age 68, begins 25 year reign. Future pastor Francis J. Glynn ordained by Archbishop Williams. 1879 Myrtle Street land, purchased in 1871, and not used for intended purpose, is sold. Sensing that growing Catholic population would soon exceed capacity of St. Bridget's, Fr. O'Farrell prevails on Archbishop Williams to purchase a one acre plus lot bound by Grove, Myrtle and Herbert Streets.
Site is intended for a new and much larger church.
In presence of an ecumenical audience estimated at 4,000, Archbishop Williams lays cornerstone of new church to be known as St. Mary's of the Annunciation. With construction completed one year behind schedule, Archbishop Williams leads formal dedication ceremonies. Dedication sermon by Fr. 1894 Archbishop Williams establishes St. Mary's of the Annunciation as a parish to serve the entire town of Melrose. Rev. Francis J. Glynn named pastor effective July 23rd.