ROMAN CATHOLIC

The first Catholics in Cleveland were the German and Irish immigrants who came in the late 1820s to build the Ohio and Erie Canal.  The first permanent priest arrived in Cleveland in 1835 and the first church was built - St. Mary's on the Flats, dedicated in 1840.  The Diocese of Cleveland was established in 1847. 

ST. JOHNS CATHEDRAL

1007 Superior Avenue

1847 - St. John's Cathedral - Superior and Erie Streets, Rev. Louis deGoesbriand

1848 - 1868 - St. John's Cathedral - Superior and Erie Streets, Rev. Amadeus Rappe

1869 – St. John’s Cathedral – Superior and Erie Streets, Rev. A. Rappe, Rev. J.F. Gallagher, Rev. James Reilly

1870 – St. John’s Cathedral – Superior and Erie Streets, Rev. A. Rappe, Rev. J.F. Gallagher, Rev. Edward Mears, Rev. M. Ivers

1871 – St. John’s Cathedral – Superior and Erie, Rev. E. Hannin, Rev. E. Mears, Rev. M. Ivers, Rev. T.J. Conlin

1872 – St. John’s Cathedral – Superior and Erie, Rev. R. Gilmour, Rev. T.J. Conlan, Rev. C.J. O’Callaghan, Rev. M. Ivers

1874 – St. John’s Cathedral – Superior and Erie, Rev. R. Gilmour, Rev. F.M. Boff, Rev. T.J. Conlan, Rev. C.J. O’Callaghan, Rev. F. McGovern, Rev. P.O. Mazutet

1877 – St. John’s Cathedral – Superior and Erie, Rev. R. Gilmour, Rev. F.M. Boff, Rev. F. McGovern, Rev. Charles Chevereaux, Rev. T.F. Mahar

1879 – St. John’s Cathedral – Superior and Erie, Rev. R. Gilmour, Rev. T.P. Thorpe, Rev. Charles Chevraux, Rev. T.F. Mahar

1883 – St. John’s Cathedral – Erie and Superior, Rev. R. Gilmour, Rev. T.p. Thorpe, Rev. Charles Chevraux, Rev. J. O’Connor

1887 – St. John’s Cathedral – Erie and Superior, Rev. T.P. Thorpe, Rev. J. O’Connor, Rev. J. Treacy

1891 – St. John’s Cathedral – Erie and Superior, Rev. T.P. Thorpe, Rev. D.J. Stafford, Rev. George Vaney, Rev. T.F. Mahon

1894 – St. John’s Cathedral – Erie and Superior, Rev. Ignatius Horstmann, Rev. G.F. Houck, Mgr. T.P. Thorpe, Rev. George Vahey, Rev. James Halligan, Rev. Patrick Farrell

1898 – St. John’s Cathedral – Erie and Superior, Rev. George Vahey

1902 – St. John’s Cathedral – Erie and Superior, Rev. Patrick Farrell

1906 – St. John’s Cathedral – 583 Superior, Rev. Ignatius Horstmann

1908 – St. John’s Cathedral – E. 9th at Superior, Rev. Thomas Fahey, Rev. F. Duffy, Ref. J.T. Farrell

1913 - 1924 – St. John’s Cathedral – E. 9th at Superior, Rev. Thomas O’Reilly

1928 – St. John’s Cathedral – E. 9th at Superior, Rev. Joseph Smith

ANNUNCIATION

4697 West 130th Street

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

On August 21, 1924, Bishop Joseph Schrembs recognized the need for a parish in the Rockport area and established Annunciation Parish.  The first Mass was celebrated by Rev. Peter Hyland in a tent in Cimperman’s Grove.  A brick church-school building was begun in October of 1924. 

1924 - 1927 – Annunciation Blessed Virgin Mary – 4505 W. 130th, Rev. Peter Hyland

1927 - 1945 – Annunciation Blessed Virgin Mary – W. 130th at Bennington, Rev. John Kelly

1945 – 1952 – Annunciation Blessed Virgin Mary – W. 130th at Bennington, Rev. Edmund Kirby

1952 - ???? – Annunciation Blessed Virgin Mary – W. 130th at Bennington, Rev. John J. Farrell

ANNUNCIATION (FRENCH) aka St. Mary of the Annunciation aka The Old French Church

Hurd (West 22nd) and Moore Streets in Ohio City

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

Bishop Amadeus Rappe purchased a lot on Hurd (W. 22nd) and Moore Streets in 1868 in order to build a church for the French immigrants in Cleveland.  A church was built and the first Mass was on October 16, 1872.  On March 18, 1892, a house was purchased on Moore Street for the rectory.  On May 1896, ground was broken for a new church.  It was dedicated on September 25, 1898.  In the area, St. Wendelin Parish and St. Emeric Parish were formed.  Father McInerney of Annunciation did not speak French and the French-speaking population had declined.  In 1916, Father McInerney was appointed pastor of St. Malachi Church.  The parishioners and the church records were transferred to St. Malachi and the Annunciation Church was taken over by St. Emeric Parish, whose church had been burned in February of 1916.  In July, 1924, the Van Sweringen brothers purchased the church to obtain right-of-way for train tracks leading to Union Terminal, and the church was demolished.

From:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annunciation_Church_(historic)_(Cleveland,_Ohio)

Above Picture Came from this Site.

Annunciation Church (French: Église de l'Annonciation de Cleveland), was a Catholic parish church in Cleveland, Ohio and part of the Diocese of Cleveland. It was located at the intersection of Hurd St. and Moore St., now part of the West Side Market parking lot, in the Ohio City neighborhood. The location where the church once stood can be found, in an 1881 atlas, at the south-west corner of Hurd St. and Moore St., (Southwest corner) on the west bank of the Cuyahoga River above part of the Flats historically known as Ox Bow Bend. It was located about 1,560 ft walking distance from St. Mary's on the Flats, the first Catholic church in Cleveland and about 150 ft distance from the present St. Emeric Church (Northwest corner of Hurd and Moore).

History

Founding

The parish was founded 1870 - about 23 years after the Diocese of Cleveland was erected by Pope Pius IX.

19th century

George Francis Houck, Chancellor of the Diocese of Cleveland, wrote that, the Catholic French population, unlike the Catholics of other nationalities in Cleveland, was neither large enough nor closely grouped, to form an exclusively French language parish, but lived scattered throughout the city and attended a church nearest to them. But they were deprived of the advantages of sermons and instructions in French. Bishop Louis Amadeus Rappe, full of zeal for the spiritual welfare of all his flock, resolved to organize a French national parish and bring them together as best he could. A lot was purchased at the corner of Hurd St. and Moore St., on 7 August 1868. It was paid for, about 1870, through the efforts of the Rev. Augustine Grandmougin, pastor of St. Augustine Church, Cleveland. (NOTE:  THE PASTOR OF ST. AUGUSTINE WAS CHARLES ALPHONSE GRANDMOUGIN, SO THE PREVIOUS SENTENCE IS PROBABLY IN ERROR).  Two years after the purchase of the lot Father Andrew Sauvadet was appointed pastor of all the French people of Cleveland, and under his direction a plain but commodious frame church was built, which was opened for divine service for the first time on the third Sunday of October, 1870, and placed under the patronage of St. Mary of the Annunciation. The upper portion of the building was used as a church, and the lower story was divided into a two-classroom parochial school.

As the number of French people identifying themselves with Annunciation Church was not, and never was, sufficient to meet the expenses connected with the support of the church and the school, a portion of St. Patrick's congregation was added, thus making Annunciation Church about two-thirds English language and one-third French language.

From the beginning, Annunciation Church had been burdened with a heavy debt, incurred in building the church, and for the purchase of several additional lots and residences for the pastor, and for the Sisters of the Holy Humility of Mary, who have had charge of the parochial school since it was opened, in 1872.

Father Augustine Gerardin received his appointment in April, 1878. He set to work at once to pay off the debt, at that time about $10,000. This was by no means an easy task, as with the financial depression, then still existing, and the poverty of many of his people, he had hard work to meet even the current expenses of the parish. However, the debt was gradually diminished, and fully paid in 1888. By this time the need of a more substantial church, to replace the frame edifice, became almost imperative. Gerardin succeeded in putting aside from the annual parish income a fair sum to serve as the nucleus for a building fund. As the site for the proposed new church had to be located next to the old edifice, and on the lot covered by the pastoral residence, Gerardin purchased, on 19 March 1892, a lot in the rear of the frame church, fronting on Moore Street. The brick house on the lot he had fitted up as a pastoral residence, his former residence having been given in exchange for the excavation made for the new church. In May, 1896, with $11,000 in the parish treasury, work was begun on the new brick church. In order not to overtax his people, and to reduce the debt already incurred, Gerardin postponed the completion of the church until 1898. At an expense of nearly $11,000 he then had the entire church finished, including frescoing, pews, three beautiful altars, stained glass windows, making it one of the neatest and most attractive churches in the diocese. On Sunday, 25 September 1898, it was solemnly dedicated by Bishop Ignatius Frederick Horstmann. It was a day of great joy for the pastor, and for his people, whose generosity made it possible to build the beautiful church. The debt ($8,000) as compared with the property owned by the congregation, is insignificant, and will be cancelled in a very few years. In fact, most of the debt would have been paid by the end of the year 1900, had not the pastor been obliged to relinquish all duty for nearly one year, owing to serious illness. During Gerardin's absence in Europe, for the benefit of his impaired health, the Rev. L. J. Wickart, of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Detroit, had charge of the parish, from September, 1899, till 1 May 1900.

FROM:  7-13-1896 Plain Dealer

A TOWERING SPIRE WILL BE REARED OVER ANNUNCIATION CHURCH CORNERSTONE

A Solemn Ceremony Yesterday

Bishop Horstmann Laid the Stone and Blessed the Foundation – A Large Concourse of Clergy and Knights of St. John – Description of the Beautiful New Structure for Father Gerardin’s Parish.

The old pioneer wooden churches, which have for so many years been the landmarks of Catholicism in Cleveland, are gradually being supplanted by modern and elaborate edifices of brick and stone, and yesterday afternoon, the cornerstone of another building that will be reared during the centennial year of this city was laid with imposing ceremony by Bishop Horstmann.  The ceremony yesterday was an active measure toward the securing of a handsome new edifice for the congregation of St. Mary’s of the Annunciation, presided over by Rev. A. Gerardin.  The old building is located at the corner of Hurd and Moore Streets, and the one that will supplant it will be erected on the adjoining lot.

A church cornerstone laying is a sacred function and attracts many to its ceremonies.  The one yesterday was even larger than the usual gathering of that nature, which is, perhaps, partially accounted for in the fact that the parish of the Annunciation is virtually the successor of old St. Mary’s on the Flats, the first church in the city.  The wooden structure the new church was replacing was built in 1870.

The article continues to talk about the following attendees:  Knights of St. John, bands, thousands of people, seven companies of the Knights of St. John, who had assembled at their headquarters at the corner of Burton and Lorain Streets, and marched behind Kirk’s Military band to Fulton, Bridge, and Detroit Streets to Pearl.  The cornerstone was laid, including newspapers of the day, documents, a number of new and old coins.  It was robbed for the coins the next day. 

1870 - 1877 – Church of the Annunciation – Hurd and Moore, Rev. Andrew Sauvadet

1878 - 1896 – Church of the Annunciation – Hurd and Moore, Rev. Augustine Gerardin

1896 - 1903 – St. Mary’s of the Annunciation – Hurd and Moore, Rev. A. Gerardin

1903 - 1906 – St. Mary’s of the Annunciation – Hurd and Moore, Rev. Raymond Mylott

1906 - 1916 – St. Mary’s of the Annunciation – W. 22nd at Moore, Rev. John McInerney

 ASCENSION OF OUR LORD

14040 Puritas

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

Ascension was founded in 1946 in the West Park area of Cleveland.  The parish originally met at John Marshall High School.  In July, 1954, the parish purchased a Lutheran Church adjacent to its property.

In the restructuring of the Diocese, Ascension Church was ordered to merge with Annunciation and St. Patrick - New parish site to be determined – FINAL MASS FOR ASCENSION WAS ON MAY 30, 2010

1946 - ???? – Rev. Martin Gallagher

1959 - ???? - Rev. Matthew Fogarty

????  – Rev. John Lesniak

???? – Rev. Yahner

1994 - ???? – Rev. Joseph Fortuna

BLESSED SACRAMENT

3381 Fulton Road

Blessed Sacrament, a parish just northwest of Brooklyn Centre at 3381 Fulton Road, is an offshoot of St. Patrick’s.  It was established in 1903 for Catholics living in the southern end of St. Patrick’s territory.  Most recently this church was located at 3381 Fulton Road.    THIS CHURCH WAS CLOSED AND THE FINAL MASS WAS HELD ON APRIL 10, 2010. 

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA:

The Blessed Sacrament Parish was established in 1903 by the Rev. Thomas P. Lamb.  While the church was being built at the corner of Storer Avenue and Rhodes Avenue (now Fulton Road), Father Lamb sang the first mass at St. Procop’s Hall at Newark and West 41st Street.  The church was completed October 10, 1903.  The school building was erected in 1905 and in the early 1920’s, both a convent and a parish house were erected.

On June 1, 2011, Bay Presbyterian Church of Bay Village, Ohio, purchased Blessed Sacrament Church at 3381 Fulton Road for $300,000. Bay Presbyterian plans to pursue an urban ministry which they have desired for a long time. Included in the purchase were the brick church, school, rectory, convent, and a double residence. The new name will be The Family Ministry Center at Blessed Sacrament.

1903 - 1907 – Blessed Sacrament – Rhodes at Storer, Rev. Thomas P. Lamb

1908 - 1917 – Blessed Sacrament – Fulton at Storer, Rev. T.P. Lamb

1917 - 1950 – Blessed Sacrament – Fulton at Storer, Rev. Stephen Wilson

1950 - 1966 – Blessed Sacrament – Fulton at Storer, Rev. Edward Hannon

???? – Rev. Carl Wernet

???? – Rev. Thomas Higgins

1972 – 1974 – Rev. John Lesniak and Rev. Joseph Yarnovic

1974 - 1987 – Rev. John Cregan

1987 - ???? – Rev. Matthew Ischay

CONVERSION OF ST. PAUL SHRINE

4120 Euclid Avenue at East 40th

In earlier years it was St. Paul Protestant Episcopal Church

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

The true impetus for the establishment of St. Paul Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament was Bishop Joseph Schrembs’ personal devotion to Jesus in the Eucharist.  Looking to establish a shrine of Perpetual Adoration, Bishop Schrembs invited the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, commonly known as the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration, to settle in Cleveland.  On December 6, 1921, two sisters from Vienna, Austria, Mother Mary Agnes Eichler and Sister Mary Cyrilla Zotter, who took up residence on Euclid Avenue near University Circle.  Over the next six years, many women joined the order, forcing a move to a new residence on East Boulevard.  This new building failed to meet the needs of the community, and a new, larger, permanent monastery was sought.  That same year, Bishop Schrembs completed negotiations for the purchase of the former St. Paul Episcopal Church at Euclid Avenue and East 40th Street.  Erected in 1870, this Gothic-style Berea sandstone church previously hosted religious services for Cleveland’s social elite.  On May 31, 1930, the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland purchased the building.  Immediately after the transfer of the property, the Diocese authorized the refurbishment and redecoration of the church, and the construction of a three-story brick monastery for the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration.  On October 2, 1931, Bishop Schrembs dedicated St. Paul Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament and appointed Father James J. Duffy its first rector.  The shrine was raised to parochial status on November 27, 1949.  To distinguish it from St. Paul Croatian Parish at 1369 East 40th, the Diocese renamed the church the Conversion of St. Paul Shrine. 

CORPUS CHRISTI (POLISH)

5204 Northcliff

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

In 1931, the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis began teaching Polish-language classes at Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish.  Three years later there was a petition for a new parish from a group of South Brooklyn’s Polish-Catholics.  The Diocese informed these Poles that they should celebrate mass at St. Barbara Parish on Denison.  Communication continued and on August 9, 1935, Corpus Christi Parish was organized.  The first mass was held at Pearl Road Recreation Center.  The new church was completed in 1936. 

In July of 2010, Corpus Christi was set to merge with Our Lady of Good Counsel on Pearl Road and the site of the merged church was at the Our Lady of Good Counsel site.  THE FINAL MASS FOR CORPUS CHRISTI WAS APRIL 17, 2010.  The name of the new merged church is:  Mary, Queen of Peace.

Excerpt of an article in the Old Brooklyn News in August 2011:

On June 10, 2011, the former Corpus Christi Catholic Church and School, located at 4850 Pearl Rd., was purchased for $382,500 by Lumen Pearl Realty LLC. It is being managed by White Hat Management. White Hat Management contracts and assists non-profit corporations that hold charters or see a need for a charter school in their community. They are statewide tuition free and can serve students in grades K-12. Pearl Academy is a tuition-free public charter, community school serving students in grades K-8.

1935 - 1971 – Corpus Christi – Pearl Road – Rev. Anthony Orlemanski

1971 – 1974 – Corpus Christi – Pearl Road – Rev. Edmund Gackowski

1974 - ???? – Corpus Christi – Pearl Road – Rev. Joseph Jarzynski

???? – Rev. Ronald J. Szudarek

EPIPHANY

11901 Oakfield

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

Epiphany Parish was established on January 6, 1944.  The first mass was celebrated in Novak’s Hall on E. 130th Street and Union Avenue.  Stores were secured on Union Avenue which were used as a chapel.  Later stores were located on E. 126th Street and Kinsman Avenue.  A permanent location was had when St. Cecilia Parish donated property at the corner of E. 120th and Oakfield Avenue.  This church closed on May 24, 2009.

1944 - 1960 – Rev. John Dunn

1960 – 1963 - Rev. Edward Murphy

1963 - 1971 – Rev. Richard McHale.

1971 - 1979 – Rev. William Karg

1979 - 1982 – Rev. Russell Banner

1982 – Rev. Daniel Begin

HOLY NAME (IRISH)

8328 Broadway Avenue

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

During the 1850’s, people from Newburgh traveled to St. Mary on the Flats Church for Mass.  Later, some priests traveled south to tend to the religious needs of the “Holy Name of Mary” community.  In October of 1861, the Newburgh Catholics purchased two lots on the corner of Miles Park and Woodland Hills Avenue (now E. 93rd).  Work began on a stone church and the cornerstone was laid in 1862.  During construction, Father Francis A. Sullivan celebrated Mass with the renamed “Holy Rosary Parish” in the Newburgh Town Hall.  In July 1863, Father Jacob Kuhn became the first pastor.  Expansion of the parish continued and a campus soon continued with Father Daudet purchasing a former factory which was converted into a school.  In 1871 Father Joseph Gallagher became the third pastor.  He purchased property on Newburgh’s Broadway Avenue in 1872 and in 1873 the cornerstone was laid for Gallagher Hall.  Newburgh and Holy Rosary Parish grew and on 1879 the parish purchased addition property on Broadway and planned to construct a church.  The cornerstone was laid on Sept. 3, 1882.  The parish established a Holy Name Society and Father Gallagher had the parish rededicated in this name.  The church was dedicated on May 22, 1887. 

1863 - 1867 - Holy Name (IRISH) - Broadway and Jones, Rev. Jacob A. Kuhn

1867 - 1871 - Holy Name - Rev. John Daudet

1871 - 1886 - Holy Name - Rev. Joseph Gallagher

1886 - 1913 – Holy Name - Rev. John T. Carroll

1913 - 1922 – Holy Name – 8328 Broadway, Rev. Patrick J. O’Connell

1922 - 1943 – Holy Name – 8328 Broadway, Rev. Wm. Scullen

1943 - 1968 - Holy Name - Rev. Charles McDonough

1968 - 1973 - Holy Name - Rev. John Kilcoyne

1973 - 1999 - Holy Name - Rev. John Dalton

1993 - ???? -  Holy Name - Rev. Vincent Moraghan

HOLY REDEEMER (ITALIAN)

15712 Kipling

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

By the middle of the 1920s a growing number of Italian-Catholics had migrated to the Collinwood section of Cleveland.  Holy Redeemer Parish was established in June, 1924.  The first church was built on May 6, 1925.  The first pastor was Rev. Martin Compagno.  The second was Achilles Ferreri.  Under his guidance, the parishioners converted the school hall into a new church.  Rev. John Iammarino was the third pastor and he presided over the groundbreaking for the third church in 1958.  It was dedicated on June 21, 1964.

1924 - 1939 – Holy Redeemer (ITALIAN) – 16220 Kipling, Rev. Martin Compagno

1940 - 1942 – Rev. Achilles P. Ferreri

1942 - 1971 – Rev. John A. Iammarino

1971 – Rev. James Grandillo

???? – Rev. Martin Polito

HOLY ROSARY (ITALIAN)

12021 Mayfield Road

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

A large number of Italian-Catholic immigrants had settled in the Murray Hill area of Cleveland.  In 1891, the Little Italy community raised enough money to purchase property on Mayfield Road and East End Road (now East 120th).  Work began on a temporary chapel.  The first Mass was celebrated on May 1, 1892.  One year later, the second pastor arrived, Rev. Joseph Riva.  He was succeeded in 1894 by Rev. Antonio Gibelli.  On June 29, 1905 the parish broke ground for a new church.  Father Gibelli died in 1907 and Father Joseph Militello took over.  The church building was dedicated on November 9, 1909.  The next pastor was Rev. Francis Haley who died in 1918.  Father Joseph Nolan replaced him and remained until 1920.  Father Romeo Martorelli took over at that time and remained until 1928.  Next was Father Joseph Trivisonno who remained until 1939.  He was succeeded by Rev. Charles McBride who remained until 1945. 

1892 - 1893 – Holy Rosary – Euclid opposite Lakeview Cemetery, Rev. Joseph Strumia

1893 – 1894 – Holy Rosary – Mayfield at East End, Rev. Joseph Riva

1894 – 1907 – Holy Rosary – Mayfield at East End, Rev. Antonio Gibelli

1907 - ???? – Holy Rosary – Mayfield at E. 121st, Rev. Giuseppe Millitello

1913 - 1918 – Holy Rosary – Mayfield at Coitman, Rev. F.J. Haley

1918 – 1920 – Holy Rosary – Mayfield, Rev. Joseph Nolan

1921 – Holy Rosary – Mayfield at E. 121st, Rev. J. Matturro

1921 - 1928 – Holy Rosary – Mayfield at E. 121st, Rev. Romeo Martorelli

1928 – 1939 – Holy Rosary – Mayfield at E. 121st, Rev. Joseph Trivisonno

1939 – 1945 – Holy Rosary – Mayfield at E. 121st, Rev. Charles McBride

1945 – 1961 – Rev. Ferdinand Tamburri

1961 – 1972 – Rev. Francis Gasbarre

1972 – 1977 – Rev. Francis Valentini

1977 – 1989 – Rev. Gaetano Menegatto

1989 - ???? – Rev. Philip Racco

HOLY TRINITY (GERMAN)

7211 Woodland Avenue

From:  Jubilee Edition of Waechter und Anzeiger Newspaper 1902:

The Holy Trinity German Catholic congregation arose in late 1879 when the German families belonging to Holy Family Church, now St. Edward’s parish, whose pastor was Peter Becker, applied together with their parish priest to remove themselves from that parish and establish a German congregation.  This request was approved in December, 1879 and Pastor Becker received the power to buy a lot to build a church on Woodland Avenue between Giddings and Brown Street.  Since the young congregation had also received permission to hold services for the time being in the chapel of St. Joseph’s Orphanage, they decided to build on one of the lots a wooden, two-story schoolhouse.  In August, 1880 Father Becker was formally named its minister.  After the erection of the schoolhouse, they passed in 1881 to building the church.  The cornerstone was laid on April 24, and on August 24th it was consecrated.  In September, 1899, the Ursulines took over the teaching of the parish school which had previously been handled by the Marian Sisters. 

1879 - 1906 – Holy Trinity – Woodland near Giddings, Rev. Peter Becker

1908 - 1917 – Holy Trinity – Woodland at E. 71st, Rev. Peter Becker

1918 – 1920 – Holy Trinity – Woodland at E. 71st, Rev. Joseph Hopp

1921 - 1941 – Holy Trinity – Woodland at E. 71st, Rev. Joseph Trapp

1941 - ???? – Holy Trinity – Woodland at E. 71st, Rev. Edward Kickel

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION (IRISH)

4129 Superior

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

In the early 1850s, Irish-Catholic families from the area of E. 41st Street and Superior Avenue celebrated Mass at the Chapel of the Nativity, a small building located behind St. John the Evangelist Cathedral.  The diocese moved the building to a lot in the middle of the Irish neighborhood in 1856 and renamed it Immaculate Conception Church.  The present church was dedicated on May 31, 1885.  Today this church is located at 4129 Superior Avenue.

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland”, by WPA 1942

During the early 1850’s, a few Catholics living in the neighborhood of East 41st Street and Superior attended services in the small frame chapel which originally stood back of St. John’s Cathedral, and was known as the Church of the Nativity.  In 1855 the little building was removed to the present site of the Immaculate Conception church and given that name.  In 1865 it received Rev. Andrew Sauvadet as its first pastor.  Five years later, Rev. T.P. Thorpe succeeded him.  A temporary frame structure was erected in 1872, and the following year saw the beginning of the present stone church.  Father Thorpe was succeeded by Rev. A.R. Sidley.  Father Sidley’s death in 1893 brought back his predecessor, Msgr. Thorpe.  He died on St. Patrick’s Day, 1907.  He was succeeded by Rev. Patrick Farrell, who lived only two years.  The present pastor is Rev. George F. Murphy. 

1865 - 1871 – Immaculate Conception – Superior and Lyman, Rev. Andrew Sauvadet

1871 - 1876 – Immaculate Conception – Superior and Lyman, Rev. Thomas P. Thorpe

1876 - 1893 – Immaculate Conception – Superior and Lyman, Rev. A.R. Sidley

1893 - 1907 – Immaculate Conception – Superior and Lyman, Rev. T.P. Thorpe

1907 - 1909 – Immaculate Conception – Superior at E. 41st, Rev. Patrick Farrell

1909 - 1942 – Immaculate Conception – Superior at E. 41st, Rev. George Murphy

1942 - 1945 – Immaculate Conception – Superior at E. 41st, Rev. William T. Moran

1945-1956 – Rev. Leonard Wheatley

1956-1958 – Rev. Caspar Heimann

1958 – 1961 – Rev. James Hernan

1961 – 1964 – Rev. Bernard Blatt

1964 – 1967 – Rev. Joseph Butler

1967 – 1969 – Rev. Bernard Tierney

1969 – 1976 – Rev. James Fortman

1976 - 1995 – Rev. Albert Mackert

1995 – Rev. Michael Troha

IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY (POLISH)

6700 Lansing

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish was founded on May 3, 1894, by Father Anton F. Kolaszewski, a former pastor of St. Stanislaus.  Bishop Horstmann relieved Kolaszewski of his pastoral duties in 1892 and Father Kolaszewski and twenty percent of his former parishioners decided to form an independent Church.  By June, land had been acquired on Fremont Street (now Lansing Avenue) for a church and acreage was secured on Marcellin Avenue (now E. 71st St) for the parish’s cemetery.  Father Kolaszewski called for the establishment of a new religious denomination called the American Catholic Church.  On August 19, 1894, independent Archbishop Vilatte of Wisconsin dedicated the first Immaculate Heart of Mary Church.  Bights broke out between the members of Immaculate Heart Parish and St. Stanislaus Church.  The year 1908 was one of reconciliation.  Monsignor Felix Boff succeeded in bringing Father Kolaszewski and his congregation into the Cleveland Diocese.  Rev. Kolaszewski resigned.  From 1908 until 1912 various administrators served the parish.  In 1912, the first diocesan pastor was called, Father Marion Orzechowski.

1894 – 1908 – Immaculate Heart of Mary – Lansing near E. 71st, Rev. Anton Kolaszewski

1912 - 1932 – Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary – Lansing near E. 71st, Rev. M.J. Orzechowski

1932 - 1960 – Immaculate Heart of Mary – Lansing near E. 71st, Rev. John Mlotkowski

1960 – 1976 – Rev. Aloysius Dombrowski

1976 – 1991 – Rev. Francis Bartnikowski

1991 – 1996 - Rev. Stanley Klasinski

1997 – Rev. Ralph Hudak

NATIVITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY aka ST. MARY OF THE NATIVITY (SLOVAK)

9614 Aetna

This church is definitely called Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.  John Sabol has some of the earliest status animarum reports from the parish and it was called Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary from the beginning.  When Eleanor Ledbetter below called it St. Mary of the Nativity, she was in error. 

From: “The Slovaks of Cleveland” by Eleanor Ledbetter:  The same influences of industrial opportunity and increased immigration which led to the establishment of St. Wendelin's, had also been the occasion of great growth at St. Ladislas, and the extension of its territory to an unwieldy extent. As a result, the parish of St. Mary of the Nativity was formed in 1903. This is east of the Newburg plant of the American Steel and Wire Company, in the neighborhood of East 93rd Street and Aetna Road. While conveniently near the mills for the men who are employed there, the land is so much higher that the air is clean and clear. It is a district of home owners, of comfortable single or two-family houses, neat yards and well tilled gardens. Its orderly development has been inspired since 1909 by a pastor who is a true shepherd of his flock, the Rev. V. A. Chaloupka. This year the spirit of neighborhood improvement was so general that over 6,000 ornamental shrubs were set out, besides small fruit and shade trees.  The Nativity school building erected in 1916, is built according to the most improved models, and possesses features which make it a genuine community center. Its large auditorium, which seats 800, is in use every Sunday evening, and often during the week. Sometimes the dramatic club gives a play, sometimes there is a lecture on some topic of the hotir, sometimes a dance with an attendance of 250 couples, but oftenest the entertainment provided is moving pictures. Father Chaloupka chooses the films, and intersperses the instructive with the merely entertaining. One night last winter, 1,100 people enjoyed moving pictures depicting religious scenes. The bowling alley is a feature of the school building much appreciated by the young men of the neighborhood, and the women have classes in the various branches of domestic science and in Red Cross work. Night school classes in English and citizenship were held last winter under the direction of the Americanization Committee, Father Chaloupka having himself previously taught citizenship classes, also acting as witness for his men in naturalization court. 

For a more complete history of this church see the history of Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary by John Sabol at:  http://www.nativitycleveland.com/history/

Nativity BVM Parish lives on as part of Cleveland's Slovak community - By John Sabol

The Roman Catholic Parish of Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary has its roots in the city's original Slovak Catholic parish, St. Ladislas. After the founding of St. Ladislas in 1885, Slovak immigrants continued to arrive in Cleveland. They gradually outgrew the neighborhood around St. Ladislas, settling two miles south in the area of Cleveland called Newburgh on what is now the southeast side of Cleveland. Many of these immigrants had found employment in the nearby American Steel & Wire Co. plant in Newburgh and in numerous foundries and other shops in the area.

Slovak families began moving to the Newburgh area as early as 1900 -- three years before Nativity was founded -- and they were later joined by newly arriving immigrants, contacted by relatives in America. These forces caused the Irish, who had lived in Newburgh since 1865, to disperse to other areas of the East Side. As more immigrants arrived to join relatives and friends, they continued to find housing and employment in that area.

The area was settled largely by Slovak immigrants from Saris, Spis and Zemplin counties. Information from the 1900 Census and from Cleveland city directories shows three or more families renting in one house -- primarily along E. 93rd St. (Woodland Hills Ave.), from Way Ave. north to Union Ave. Two of the more prominent boarding houses were nicknamed "The Ship" and "Castle Garden," named for the site where many of these immigrants entered the United States in New York before Ellis Island was established.

For at least two years they continued to walk to worship at St. Ladislas Church until finally they petitioned Cleveland Bishop Ignatius Horstmann to establish a Slovak Roman Catholic parish in the Newburgh area. It was difficult to establish a parish for Slovak Catholics in Cleveland at that time -- primarily because of the scarcity of priests who could minister to them in their native tongue. In 1902, when they had petitioned the bishop, two other Slovak communities had also asked the diocese to establish parishes -- one on the Near West Side, which would become St. Wendelin Parish, and another in Lakewood, just west of Cleveland, which would become Sts. Cyril and Methodius Parish.

The founding members of Nativity paid out almost $2,500 in seed money to establish the parish. This was at a time when many of them were working 12 hours a day for $1.25. The first Masses in early 1903 were celebrated in rented rooms owned by Dr. Mae Schimkola, a neighborhood physician. By December 6, 1903, the community had built and consecrated its first church.

Early parishioners were from the easternmost areas of present-day Slovakia. Early records of Nativity indicate that parishioners were from such villages as Uzovsky Salgov, Dravec, Brezovica, and Sabinov in Saris County; Porelinec in Spis County; and Bela nad Cirochou, Snina, and Trebisov in Zemplin County. The accompanying chart indicates the many villages and concentrations from specific villages that made up the original population of the parish. Later immigrants from villages further west would swell the parish buildings to capacity through the 1920s.

The first resident pastor was Rev. Joseph Ptasinski, who served from 1903-1904. He was succeeded by three other priests -- Rev. Julius Kitter (April-October 1904), Rev. Ladislas Necid (October 1904-November 1907); and Rev. Joseph Adamek (November 1907-November 1908). These priests left for a variety of reasons, including lack of fluency in the Slovak language, disenchantment with life in America, and transfer to another, larger parish.

The fifth pastor of Nativity, Rev. Vaclav A. Chaloupka, took over leadership of the fast-growing community in January 1909. A Bohemian by birth, he stayed on to lead the parish for the next 47 years, until his death in 1956. Fr. Chaloupka had already mastered the Slovak language during his term as pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Marblehead -- about 80 miles west of Cleveland. Moreover, immediately after his ordination in 1902 he had served as an assistant pastor with Rev. Stefan Furdek at Our Lady of Lourdes Czech parish in Cleveland.

The first parish school was located on the second floor of the church building and facilities at the fast-growing parish could barely contain the swelling population. Fr. Chaloupka's first priority was to build a larger school that would also house a community center for Slovaks living in the area. "It makes no sense for young men to be shooting dice under the streetlight . . . when they could be playing together in our new school building," Fr. Chaloupka wrote in an early parish report. By 1913 a modern school was built on the site of the first church, which was physically moved one block south.

A strong leader, Fr. Chaloupka encouraged his parishioners to retain their Slovak identity, while at the same time he urged them to seek out all the benefits of life in America -- including citizenship. He offered citizenship classes in the school and sponsored many immigrants on the road to naturalization. At the same time the newly built school was the site for movies about the Slovak folk hero Janosik and for visiting Slovak bands and dance troupes.

But he went beyond building to teach people to care. Because many in the neighborhood didn't have phones he offered the phone at the parish rectory as a central exchange for the neighborhood. It was not unusual for Fr. Chaloupka to travel to a nearby parishioner's home to tell him that he had an important phone call at the rectory -- usually involving employment.

An amateur beekeeper, he distributed a jar of honey to each parish family just before Christmas each year. The honey would be used with the oplatky at the traditional Slovak Christmas Eve dinner (stedry vecer).

By the mid '20s the immigrant population along with the children of the original members of the parish had greatly increased the size of Nativity BVM Parish. More that 1,000 children in eight grades were packing the school, and other buildings on the parish property, and the original church had become woefully small. The parish's next project was the construction of a new church, which was built and dedicated by 1926.

During the 1920s, Fr. Chaloupka added a new dimension to parish life when he opened up property he owned on Kelleys Island (in Lake Erie) as a camp, known as the Villa, for parish children. Through most of the '20s and through the '30s, parish children had the opportunity to spend a week or more on the island -- away from the polluted city -- at a reasonable price. As late as 1940, the camp fee for parishioners was only $6 for two weeks. The camp provided a welcome change for Depression-era children, who looked forward to swimming, hiking and fun.

The success of the Villa would not have happened without the many parents and other parishioners who spent almost the entire summer cooking, cleaning and even doing the laundry to make the camp work. Many of the buildings still standing today were the work of parish men. The camp had become an extension of the parish.

Through World War II and into the postwar era, the parish flourished, finally to be done in by suburban flight. In 1952 Fr. Chaloupka saw the effects on the parish, when he wrote:

"They were both raised in Nativity Parish. . . . They lived sensibly, and saved all they could. When they had a nice bank account, along came a glib-talking real estate agent and sold them a lot in Garfield Heights. . . . They never noticed that it was far from the nearest Catholic church and school. Only after they moved into their new home did they realize this. . . . Then too they found that school facilities were taxed -- The existing school space was very crowded. There was no room in the Catholic school and in the public school the children were placed in temporary rooms. All this because the parents wanted a home on the Heights! . . .

"There would be more happiness in the world today if people would evaluate what they have where they are and compare it to what they would get where they want to go. Mortgages and taxes and inconvenience bring not happiness but ulcers and unhappiness. Think it over."

Fr. Chaloupka died in 1956 and was succeeded by seven other pastors. Nativity's demise was inevitable. Its school closed in 1972. Its last resident pastor left in 1984. In 1990, even the stained-glass windows, paid for by hard work and sacrifice by parishioners and parish organizations, were taken to furnish another church in Lorain County.

But the handful of hardy parishioners who remained -- some still living in the neighborhood, others commuting each week for meetings and masses -- kept the traditions and the parish alive. They were as pioneering as those who chose to found a parish in this neighborhood. Throughout its history, the parish worked hard to preserve Slovak language, culture and traditions. Representatives of the Cleveland Catholic Diocese working on archiving the parish records remarked that Nativity had more records written in the parishioners' native tongue than any other nationality parish in Cleveland.

One of the last traditions, which died with the parish, was the yearly Christmas pageant on Christmas Eve. Schoolchildren used to present it, and each Christmas Eve, those who sang the Slovak carols as angels, shepherds and peasant girls became schoolchildren again as their minds wandered back to a much happier time, when everyone thought Nativity -- and the neighborhood -- would last forever.

Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish closed its doors forever on December 27, 1992. For 90 years, it symbolized the history of thousands of Slovak families. For many newly arrived immigrants who crossed an ocean under less-than-ideal conditions and circumstances, Nativity harbored their dreams of America -- a land with more diversity than they had ever seen. For their children and grandchildren, it was a link to the past -- to their cultural heritage.

For almost 90 years, it represented a cultural link to Slovak ancestors and for its founders it represented the hope that they could find success and freedom in this new land. They had taken a mighty risk, leaving an area where their families had lived for centuries for a relatively new country where even their ethnic origins would be regarded as a mystery. Nativity and other nationality parishes helped these newcomers to reduce that risk -- to ensure that they could find their place in the American mainstream and still retain their own identity.

The parish community was so strong that even 10 years after Nativity's closing more than 400 former parishioners came together for a 100th anniversary celebration -- not only of Nativity Parish but of the Slovak community on Cleveland's Southeast Side.

1903 – 1904 – St. Mary’s of the Nativity (SLOVAK) – Rev. Joseph Ptasinski

1904 – St. Mary’s of the Nativity – Rev. Julius Kitter

1904 – 1906 – St. Mary’s of the Nativity – Rev. Ladislas Necid

1906 – St. Mary’s of the Nativity – 670 Aetna, Rev. Ladislav Necid

1907 – St. Mary’s of the Nativity – 9126 Aetna, Rev. Ladislas Necid

1907 – 1908 – St. Mary’s of the Nativity – Rev. Joseph Adamek

1909 - 1918 – Nativity – 9614 Aetna, Rev. Chaloupka

1928 – 1956 – Nativity – 9600 Aetna, Rev. Vaclav A. Chaloupka

OUR LADY OF CZESTOCHOWA - POLISH

1921 – Our Lady of Czestochowa – E. 141st and Harvard

1924 - 1928 – Our Lady of Czestochowa – Harvard at E. 141st, Rev. Stanislav Rogosz

OUR LADY OF GOOD COUNSEL (GERMAN)

4423 Pearl Road

Our Lady of Good Counsel - now Mary Queen of Peace - 4423 Pearl Road.  St. Mary's in the Flats started a mission church to Brighton in 1873.  In October of 1874, the cornerstone was laid for the church called Sacred Heart of Mary.  This church was located west of Pearl Road on Broadview, near the Brookmere Cemetery and cost about $11,000 to build.  The first resident pastor arrived in 1894 and a two-room school opened next to the church.  In May of 1907, this church burned down and in 1909 a new church was built at a different location.  During construction, the parishioners met at South Brooklyn Village’s town hall.  It was called Sacred Heart of Mary until 1917 when it was renamed Our Lady of Good Counsel.  The Parish is the mother church of St. Charles Borromeo, St. Francis de Sales, Corpus Christi, St. Thomas More, and St. Leo the Great.    The current Our Lady of Good Counsel Church at 4423 Pearl Road was built in 1930.

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1942

Our Lady of Good Counsel had its beginnings in the early days of South Brooklyn.  Its first Pastor, Rev. Patrick Francis Quigley, said first mass in a public school.  Later the home of a member and subsequently an unused cooper shop, served as meeting places before erection of the first church in 1874.  The growth of the new parish, then known as Sacred Heart of Mary, was slow.  With the advent of Rev. A. Steffen in 1890, school matters began to interest the parish and a two-room school was opened on September 3, 1894.  Much of this good work came to naught when the church was destroyed by fire on May 12, 1907.  The disaster has since been looked upon as a blessing, as it caused the site of the church to be changed to a location more central for the Catholic families in Brooklyn.  In October, 1907, a church and school structure was started on the present site.  Because of the pioneer work done by Fathers of the Most Precious Blood, the Rev. Ignatius Horstmann transferred to that congregation on January 31, 1908, the charge of the Sacred Heart of Mary Parish, with Rev. Luke Rath as pastor.  Rev. Joseph M. Koudelka dedicated the new church and school on August 15, 1908.  Ground was broken for the present church on March 19, 1917, and at that time the name of the church was changed to Our Lady of Good Counsel.  The lower church was completed in September 1918. 

From the Old Brooklyn News:

The Diocese of Cleveland in recognition of the high percentage of Germans in the congregation, asked a German-speaking segment of The Society of the Precious Blood to staff the parish.  These priests had already been working with German Catholics in the west central part of Ohio since 1844.  From stories he remembers having been told to him by his mother, John Baird was able to share with us that the first pastors and associate pastors at Our Lady of Good Counsel were German, that German was taught in the school, that some prayers and hymns in the school were in German, and that there were also sermons on Sundays in German.  Similar to the recreation center we wrote about last month in conjunction with St. John Cantius Church, OLGC also provided an opportunity for its members to socialize at bowling alleys on the parish grounds.  OLGC owned a gas station too; parishes were much more their own little communities in those days than they are now.  With the passing of years though, OLGC in particular and South Brooklyn in general became much less German and much more Eastern European in terms of ethnic character.  A 1956 survey cited in the parish’s 1973 centennial history book stated that most parishioners were of Polish or Slavic background, with German and Irish being the next most frequent ethnicities, and Hungarian, Greek and Italian also represented. 

John Baird also addressed OLGC’s Polish roots – how; when Corpus Christ Church was established in 1935, that parish’s first masses were held in OLGC’s auditorium.  Actually, in 1931, even before Corpus Christ existed, the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis began teaching Polish language classes at OLGC.  The Corpus Christi masses at OLGC were in Latin, of course, but the sermons were in Polish.  Over the years, some of the Precious Blood priests at OLGC (e.g., Andy Pollock and Ed Zukowski) spoke Polish too.

This church merged with Corpus Christi in 2010 and the merged new location remained at Our Lady of Good Counsel.  THE FINAL MASS AT OUR LADY OF GOOD COUNSEL WAS APRIL 18, 2010.  The new church is called Mary, Queen of Peace.

1873 – 1890 – Sacred Heart of Mary – Rev. Patrick Francis Quigley

1890 – Sacred Heart of Mary – Rev. A. Steffen

1894 - 1896 – Sacred Heart of Mary - Rev. Michael Becker

1896 – 1908 – Sacred Heart of Mary - Rev. Nicholas Weckel

1908 - 1918 – Sacred Heart of Mary – 4423 Pearl, Rev. Luke Rath

1918 - 1947 – Our Lady of Good Counsel – 4119 Pearl, Rev. Sebastian Kremer

1947 – 1957 – Rev. Frank Laudick

1957 – 1960 – Rev. Anthony Gamble

1960 – 1971 - Rev. Victor Ranly

1971 – 1976 – Rev. Roman Rodak

1976 – 1981 – Rev. James Smith

1981 – 1991 – Rev. John Nagele

1991 – 1996 – Rev. Richard Friebel

1996 - ???? – Rev. Leroy Moreeuw

OUR LADY OF LOURDES (BOHEMIAN)

3395 East 53rd

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

The Diocese of Cleveland welcomed its first Bohemian priest, Father Anthony Krasny in 1858.  While serving at St. Peter on Superior Avenue, Father Krasny celebrated Mass with members of the city’s Bohemian community, many of whom had settled in an area which later would become known as “Little Bohemia”.  In 1882, Father Anton Hynek, pastor of St. Wenceslas, purchased property for a new parish at the corner of Hamm and Randolph (now E. 55th).  The community soon welcomed its first pastor, Father Stephen Furdek.  In April 1883, Our Lady of Lourdes celebrated the dedication of its frame church.

1882 - 1906 – Our Lady of Lourdes – Randolph at Hamm, Rev. Stephen Furdek

1906 - 1915 – Our Lady of Lourdes – E. 54th at Hamm, Rev. Stephen Furdek

1915 - 1955 – Our Lady of Lourdes – E. 54th at Hamm, Rev. Oldrich Zlamal

1955 - 1959 - Our Lady of Lourdes - Rev. Francis Maruna

1959 - 1961 - Our Lady of Lourdes - Rev. Francis Habart

1961 - 1981 - Our Lady of Lourdes - Rev. John Andel

1981 - 1983 - Our Lady of Lourdes - Rev. Dennis Tomczyk

1983 – 1987 – Our Lady of Lourdes – Rev. James Sheil

1987 - ???? -  Our Lady of Lourdes - Rev. James J. Masek

OUR LADY OF MERCY (SLOVAK) (Built 1949)

2425 West 11th

The Parish had been known as St. John the Baptist.  The Slovak Catholics in the neighborhood of the present Our Lady of Mercy Church petitioned the Most Reverend Bishop John P. Farrelly in 1915 to be separated from St. Wendelin Parish that they might have a parish of their own.  Among contributing reasons for their request was the distance children from certain parts of the parish were obliged to travel to reach the St. Wendelin school, and the danger of intervening street crossings.  They had purchased a site with four frame buildings in anticipation of the new parish.  But the request was not granted and some of the people fell into a schism, placing themselves under the jurisdiction of an independent Polish bishop of Scranton.  During this time services were held in one of the frame buildings, which had been remodeled for a church; another of the small buildings was used as a parish house.  The school, with 150 children, occupied a third building.  The congregation petitioned Bishop Schrembs for reinstatement shortly following his transfer to the Cleveland diocese.  He appointed the Rev. Stephen Begalla, an assistant at St. Wendelin to take temporary charge of the congregation.  Father Francis J. Dubosh, Our Lady of Mercy's first pastor was appointed on February 1, 1922.   In 1927 the Rev. John W. Krispinsky became pastor and served until 1964.  In 1949 the present church was built.  The present pastor is Rev. Andrew Laheta.  The crab-orchard stone structure, built in 1949 to replace an earlier wooden frame church is noted for its carved wooden statues and its shrines to St. Joseph, St. Cyril and St. Methodius.  The structure features many traditional Slovak design elements such as elliptical arches and folk paintings.  Architect:  Stickle, Kelly, and Stickle.

Our Lady of Mercy Church, 2425 W. 11th St., began as an offshoot of St. Wendelin Parish. The Slovaks living in Tremont objected to traveling through the industrial valley to St. Wendelin and wanted to establish their own parish. Though Bp. John P. Farrelly refused them permission, the Slovaks persisted. The Polish Nationalist pastor of Sacred Heart Church on W. 14th promised them a priest if they affiliated with the Polish National Catholic Church. They then organized the parish of St. John Baptist, which opened in 1915. The Polish Nationalist link drove many back to St. Wendelin's. Mounting problems finally forced the St. John parish to approach the Roman Catholic diocese for assistance. Bp. Joseph Schrembs agreed to accept the repentant congregation in 1922. Rev. Francis Dubosh was named pastor of the church, renamed Our Lady of Mercy. By 1927, when Fr. John W. Krispinsky became pastor, the congregation had grown from 60 to 326 families. It continued to grow, and, in 1942, the parish began a door-to-door collection to build a new church. By 1945 they had realized $50,000 toward their goal; construction began in 1948. The Romanesque-style church was dedicated on 23 Oct. 1949. The church's interior incorporates much of the Slovak peasant heritage, with a large mosaic featuring Mary, Our Sorrowful Mother, the patron of Slovakia.

From:  "People of Faith", by Charles R. Kaczynski

For Slovak-Catholics living in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland in the early years of the twentieth century, celebrating Mass required traveling down Willey Hill or across the Abbey Road Bridge to St. Wendelin Parish in Ohio City.  Hoping to erect a new church, the community petitioned Bishop John P. Farrelly.  After consulting with the pastor of St. Wendelin Parish, Bishop Farrelly denied the request.  In the wake of the Diocese's continued opposition, some of Tremont's Slovak-Catholics conferred with members of the Sacred Heart Polish National Catholic Church on West 14th St.  Led by Bishop Franciszek Hodur of Scranton, Pennsylvania, the Polish National Catholic Church rejected the First Vatican Council's 1870 declaration of Papal infallibility and supported the substitution of the vernacular for Latin as the language of the Eucharist.  Along with dissident Polish-Catholic communities, the Polish National Catholic Church also welcomed alienated Slovak congregations.  In 1915, the Slovak community established an independent church, St. John the Baptist Parish.  By 1919, the parish had secured property on West 11th St., converting existing buildings into a church, school, and rectory.  In the next two years, the fledgling community, like many other independent parishes, struggled to meet its financial obligations.  Soon after the installation of Bishop Joseph Schrembs, St. John the Baptist Parish petitioned to be recognized as a Roman Catholic congregation.  Following the appointment of an administrator, Father Stephen Begalla, and a one-year probationary period, Bishop Schrembs officially recognized the community, renaming it Our Lady of Mercy Parish.  Under the direction of its first pastor, Father Francis Dubosh, the parish erected a brick school and converted an existing house into a convent for the Notre Dame Sisters.  In 1927, Father John W. Krispinsky succeeded Father Dubosh.  With the departure of the Notre Dame Sisters in 1935, the parish welcomed teachers from the Vincentian Sisters of Charity.  By the end of the Second World War, the parish had eliminated its entire debt.  In 1948, the community converted its school hall into a temporary church and demolished its original church, making way for the construction of a Romanesque-inspired stone church with stained glass windows and an interior mosaic of Our Lady of Mercy.  On October 23, 1949 Bishop Edward F. Hoban dedicated the new church.  During the following decade, the parish launched a number of other construction projects, including a new rectory.  With Father Krispinsky's retirement in 1964, the community welcomed Father Andrew Laheta, a son of Our Lady of Mercy Parish.  The parish succeeded in retiring the church's mortgage in 1967.  Our Lady of Mercy School closed in 1973.  Following Father Laheta's departure in November 1988, the parish welcomed Father Gary Gresko.  Over the next decade, Father Gresko and his successor and current pastor, Father Joseph Hilinski, helped the parish remain a vital part of Tremont's church community. 

HISTORY OF OUR LADY OF MERCY CHURCH

For several years previous to the year 1917, Slovak Catholics residing on the South Side, or “Heights”, as it was called, clamored for a parish independent of the Mother parish, St. Wendelin, located on Columbus road.  The reasons alleged were, that it was too distant to send children to St. Wendelin School, also too dangerous, since the children had to cross three street car lines and one railroad track.  To avoid crossing the railroad track the children would have to cross over the Abbey Street Bridge, which worked quite a hardship on the children, especially in winter.  Therefore, the Slovak residents of the South Side petitioned Rt. Rev. John P. Farrelly, D.D., then Bishop of Cleveland, to grant them a new parish on the South Side.  This parish was to be a division of the parish on Columbus Road, St. Wendelin.

When the Petition was brought to the attention of Bishop Farrelly, he judged that distance played no important part in the reason advanced for the division of St. Wendelin Parish.  Rev. August Tomasek, the Pastor, was also of the opinion that the reason given, namely distance, was no just reason, and hence recommended to the Bishop that he should not consider that as a valid cause for dividing St. Wendelin parish.  The Bishop harkened to the said recommendation of the Rev. August Tomasek, and refused the petition.

The wish of the people of the South Side was not to be easily cast aside.  As they had already purchased the necessary property, for approximately $13,000, the residents continued to importune the Rt. Rev. John P. Farrelly, to grant them their request, and send them a priest.  The Bishop continued persistently to resist their importunities, claiming the distance was not too great, that the majority of the people were not in favor of such a division, that only a few busy bodies were interested, and that furthermore, he had no Slovak priests to give them.

This conflict continued to exist from 1915 to 1917, when the people were disgusted and worn out, but not ready to give up their pet idea.  So, they resorted to imprudent means to force the Bishop to grant them a Parish of their own.  Prudence was cast aside, and upon the advice of some foolhardy men, they consulted with the “Independent” Pastor of the “Independent” Polish Church on West 14th Street.  This man, under the jurisdiction of a “Bishop” Hodur of Scranton, Pa., advised them to cast off the rightful jurisdiction of their rightful Bishop and accept the jurisdiction of his “Bishop”, who would immediately grant them their request.  Deceived into believing it was the same Church, but only with a different Bishop, these people made application to “Bishop” Hodur, who, without much delay, sent them a man, about twenty-two years of age, as their first “pastor.”  He remained for several years, at the end of which time he was forced to leave.  An independent successor came who remained until the advent of the Rt. Rev. Joseph Schrembs, D.D. the successor of Bishop Farrelly.

Soon after Bishop Schrembs as the new Bishop of Cleveland, the people of the South Side again presented their petition to the Bishop.  And His Excellency, moved by the story of their struggle for their own parish, accepted their petition and promised to receive them back into the fold, if they would dismiss their illegal pastor and sign over the property to him, the Bishop of Cleveland.  This they most willingly consented to do, especially since they were in financial difficulties.

The number of families that belonged to the “independent” Church in time dwindled, as the people began to realize that accepting a pastor from “Bishop” Hodur meant they were not practical Catholics.  This defection from the “independent” parish of St. John The Baptist, as it was then called, left but 60 families, who tried might and main to keep up their “parish” and their work and their investment.  The task was too difficult.  When they were about to be forced to surrender, Providence seemed to come to their assistance in the person of Bishop Schrembs.

This Bishop, as mentioned above, granted them a Parish of their own, and sent them their first Pastor on February 1, 1922.  The new Pastor Rev. Francis J. Dubosh came to this newly organized parish from Youngstown, Ohio, where he served as Pastor of Holy Name Parish.  The Bishop asked him to leave an organized and flourishing parish to care for the spiritual needs of the New South Side Parish.  The new Pastor was well acquainted with conditions in the new parish (formerly St. John Baptist, “independent”) because he had been an assistant at St. Wendelin from the years 1916 to 1917.  He had been assistant there during the time of the agitation for the new parish, and also when the people had broken off from Bishop Farrelly.

When the Rev. Francis J. Dubosh arrived he found a lot 132 x 200 ft. on which were four frame buildings; a small Church, remodeled from a store and seating 204 people; a small two room school, having about 150 pupils ranging from the first grade to the seventh grade inclusively; an old story and a half building in the rear of the lot and next to the school, rented out to a parishioner, and a story and a half frame building in poor repair, which served as the Pastor’s residence.  The debt on all the property amounted to about $35,000, owed to a bank; to quite a few of the parishioners, who had to loan the parish money in order to keep it going (the bank would loan no more); to quite a number of firms which sold equipment to the parish, but could not receive all their money because of the poverty of the parish.

The new pastor, Father Dubosh, began to reorganize the new parish immediately, and with the aid of the new and old parishioners (the new were allotted from St. Wendelin’s) was able to straighten out the financial affairs in tangle.  Within a period of less than four years the people under his leadership were able to pay off the entire debt and improve and repair the buildings and besides start the erection of a new and modern school building.  The new school was of modern structure, brick, with art stone trimmings, containing eight class rooms and basement hall.  The school was the first unit of a school-church project to be joined together in the form of an L.  The cost of this first unit was $80,000.  Architects Messrs. Potter-Gabele & Co. had a difficult time fitting an eight-room school and Church to seat 500 persons and a rectory in the space allotted.

This supposed crowding was necessitated by exorbitant prices asked by the adjoining property owners.  The owner of the north asked $60,000 for 2 two story buildings and an apartment with two suites.  The owner of the south lot asked $35,000 for a lot 66 x 250, having two frame buildings housing four families.  The owner to the east asked $28,000 for a lot 50 x 190 feet, containing a four-family house with no modern conveniences, and two single family houses in bad repair.  All the owners were just waiting for an opportunity to sell their properties at very high prices.  The day of disappointment came when, on May 3, the steam shovel began digging.  That showed them the parish could get along without their property.

This school was necessitated by the great number of school children attending other schools, especially, public schools.  The people too were most anxious that their children begin and end their education in a Catholic Parochial School.  Up to this time only children from the fifth to the eighth grade could be accepted in the frame school.  The old school was built with two rooms, but the Rev. Francis Dubosh remodeled it into a three-room school, to facilitate the work of the Notre Dame Sisters who were in charge of the school.  In order that their dream for a school might become a reality, the parishioners under the guidance of the pastor immediately set up a fund for that selfsame purpose.  After a canvass of the parishioners the pastor found that the people promised $15,000 in pledges, which they promised to pay within the year 1926.

Of great assistance to the pastor was the duplex envelope system.  This system started shortly after his arrival, enabled the pastor to raise the Sunday collection five-fold.  Such a system meant great work.  And the men most affected by the work, the councilmen, generously gave of their time and labor.  The councilmen in office at that time were Stephen Cech, John Durica, Peter Orisek Sr., and Joseph Schman.

Simultaneously with the building of the New School was the enlargement of the Sister’s Home.  It now was able to accommodate nine sisters, whereas previously only three sisters could be accommodated.

On October, 1, 1927, Rev. Francis J. Dubosh was transferred to St. Cyril and Methodius parish in Lakewood, Ohio, and Rev. John W. Krispinsky became the new Pastor of Our Lady of Mercy Parish.  Father Krispinsky came from a Slovak parish, (St. John (Slovak) in the present Youngstown Diocese.  He had been there for seven years in the capacity of pastor.  The New Pastor found a frame Church seating 220 people, a frame Sister’s convent with room for nine Sisters, a frame Rectory, and a brand new school completed by his predecessor.  The complete debt on the institution was $63,500.  The census showed that the parish comprised 326 families, practically all of Slovak extraction.  There were about 370 children in school.  From a financial viewpoint the years 1927, 1928 and 1929 were very good ones.  But the next ten years were very trying ones and Father Krispinsky had quite a time making payments on the debt.

In July 1934 the first assistant of Our Lady of Mercy came to the Parish, in the person of Rev. Benjamin S. Bayus.  This was his very first assignment, and he was to remain in the Parish as assistant priest for nine-and-one-half years.

In 1942, subscriptions were taken for a new church.  A house-to-house canvass was taken up by both, Father Krispinsky and Father Bayus.  In the ensuing two years the people outdid themselves, by not only pledging, but giving in cash the sum of $51,000 toward the New Church.  The Church could not however, be built during the War, because of priorities, and hence it had to be deferred until a more propitious time.

In 1935, the Vincentian Sisters of Charity replaced the Sisters of Notre Dame.  The Vincentian Sisters came from their Mother House in Bedford, Ohio, and are teaching to the present time.

In 1944, Rev. Benjamin S. Bayus was transferred to Akron, Ohio, to the Parish of St. John The Baptist, and was replaced by Rev. James A. Slaminka a newly ordained priest.  A fond farewell was given to our beloved assistant, Father Bayus, to which all the parishioners came to express their gratitude for his nine-and-one-half years of service among them.

During World War II, 178 young men of the Parish enlisted in the service of their country, seven of whom were to lay down their lives in supreme sacrifice.  During the War, the women of the Parish organized a Service Club, whose project it was to keep up the morale of the men.  They did this by means of cards, sent at appropriate times, letters, and gifts through the mails.  They also had a Mass said for the spiritual and temporal welfare of the young men each month.  At the end of the War, a great Victory Banquet was tendered, and all the parishioners participated.  A beautiful crucifix souvenir was given to each of the men.  During the war, a monthly News Bulletin was sent to the servicemen, with newsy items and with special heartwarming advice by Father John Krispinsky, their pastor, a nice morale builder.  The Service Club had a special Honor Roll installed in Church with the names of all the Servicemen from the Parish inscribed.

In 1945, the entire debt was wiped off the books, and a jubilant Father Krispinsky announced to an equally happy parish, that there was the amount of $51,000 on hand for the New Church.  Over and above this the parish gave $12,000 toward the St. John Cathedral Project.

In 1946, a Kindergarten was established for the youngsters of the Parish.  It proved to be very successful, and a god-send to young mothers.

On April 26, 1948, with the consent of His Excellency, Most Rev. Edward F. Hoban, Bishop of Cleveland, Rev. John Krispinsky, Pastor of Our Lady of Mercy, signed a contract for the estimated sum of $157,000.  The Church according to the contract was to seat 500 people, be of early Christian Design, and of stone.  The contract was awarded to James McHugh & Sons, Contractors in Cleveland, Ohio.  Work on the Church was to begin within the next few weeks.  The firm Stickle, Kelly & Stickle, Architects, designed the New Church.

On May 7, 1948 at the call of Father Krispinsky, many parishioners, young and old began to move the altars, pews, etc. into the school hall, where a temporary arrangement was made to hold services until the Church would be ready.  The Old Church used since 1917, was demolished by May 10, 1948.  On Sunday May 19, Masses were resumed in the School Hall.

May 24, 1948 is a day that will be long remembered, for on that day, Father Krispinsky broke the ground for the New Church, amidst the applause of a mighty throng of parishioners and school children.  Father Krispinsky dug one shovelful, then came Father Slaminka, the Janitor John Futey Sr., the Sisters represented by Sister Mr. Irene, parishioners and even some school children.

By the 25th of July, 1948 concrete foundation footings were completed and workers were ready to begin the stone work.  Masons were scarce and work in this line was high priced, so the work went along slowly.

Another great day in the History of the Parish took place on Sept. 17, 1948 at 3:00 p.m.  On that Sunday afternoon the Laying of the Corner Stone took place.  Most Rev. Edward F. Hoban, Bishop, delegated, Monsignor Francis F. Dubosh to perform the ceremony.  Rev. Florian Hudac, O.S.B. and Rev. Andrew Laheta, sons of the Parish were Deacon and Subdeacon respectively.  It was a bright sunny day.  About 20 other priests were in attendance.  Preachers for the occasion were Rt. Rev. Monsignor Stephen G. Kocis of Youngstown, Ohio, who preached in Slovak, and Rev. Benjamin S. Bayus, the former assistant who preached in English.  Practically the whole parish turned out for this beautiful ceremony.  Many friends and neighbors were also present to witness the historical event.

Beginning with October 3, 1948 the Parish inaugurated the $1.00 a Sunday Club to increase the revenue of the parish.  Each Sunday every Parishioner giving at least $1.00 the previous Sunday had his name published under a special caption in the Our Lady of Mercy News, the official Parish weekly news sheet. There are about 170 parishioners who have been faithful members of this club.

On January 16, 1949 a Campaign for furnishings for the New Church was sent to each family in the parish.  Within a period of three months nearly all of the furnishings were purchased. This is indeed a fine tribute to the loyalty of the parishioners and their extreme generosity.  Even the School Children were not outdone, they purchased the Baptismal Font, Decorations for the Baptistry and a Processional Canopy and a Painted Angel. 

During the summer of 1949 men and young men of the Parish volunteered their services and repainted the entire school inside.  The good women of the PTA under the supervision of our Good Sisters cleaned the entire school.  Likewise, men of the parish laid sidewalks around the New Church.  All this work saved a considerable amount of money for the Parish.

And now, the eventful day for the Parishioners of Our Lady of Mercy arrived.  The completion of their New Church.  The Consecration of the Main Altar was performed by our Auxiliary Bishop, the Most Rev. Floyd L. Begin, on Saturday, October 22, 1949 at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Pontifical Mass by the Bishop and a short sermon by Bishop Begin.

On Sunday, October 23, 1949 at 10:00 a.m. the Most Rev. Edward F. Hoban, Bishop of Cleveland, solemnly blessed the New Church of Our Lady of Mercy, followed by a Solemn Pontifical Mass.  The Rt. Rev. Monsignor Francis Dubosh preached both in Slovak and English.  His Excellency Bishop Hoban also talked briefly, praising and encouraging the Parishioners for their sacrifices and generosity.

The following Councilmen served on the Building Committee during the construction of the New Church: Mr. Imro Pivarnik, Mr. John Vojtovich, Mr. Stephen Futey and Mr. Stephen Hudac.

This church was on the church closing list and was set to close before July 1, 2010.  THE FINAL MASS WAS HELD MAY 9, 2010.

1924 - 1927 – Our Lady of Mercy – 2433 W. 11th, Rev. Francis J. Dubosh

1927 - 1964 – Our Lady of Mercy – 2433 W. 11th, Rev. John Krispinsky

1964 - 1988 - Our Lady of Mercy - Rev. Andrew Laheta

1988 - 1990's - Our Lady of Mercy - Rev. Gary Gresko

1990s - Our Lady of Mercy - Rev. Joseph Hilinski

OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL (ITALIAN)

6928 Detroit Avenue

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

During the first two decades of the 20th Century, Italian-Catholics living on Cleveland’s west side disagreed over the location for their church.  One group wished to build in the Fulton Road area and the other favored a location on Detroit Avenue between W. 65th and W. 69th.  St. Rocco community on Fulton Road received recognition in February 1924.  Its first pastor was Rev. Sante Gattuso.  He celebrated Mass with the Detroit Road community as well.   The home of the Fasino family became an unofficial chapel and by Spring 1926, the community moved to a new chapel in a former tavern.  In 1932 they purchased a house on Detroit Avenue and converted it into a chapel.  The mission purchased property on Detroit Avenue between W. 69th and W. 70th for a future church.  In March, 1949 ground was broken for a new church.  Permission was later granted for another new church and Our Lady of Mount Carmel was dedicated on April 19, 1953.

1928-1970 – Rev. Caruso

1970-???? – Rev. Marino Frascati

OUR LADY OF PEACE

12503 Buckingham Avenue

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

The first community mass of this church was held in Luna Park’s billiard room.  They obtained a new building on Buckingham Avenue in 1920.  In 1938, Our Lady of Peace parish purchased land at the corner of E. 126th St. and Shaker Boulevard.  The first mass was said in this church on September 18, 1951.

1919 - 1928 – Rev. James F. Cummins

1940’s - 1951 – Rev. Edward Reilly

1951 - ???? – Rev. Francis J. Joyce

1964 – Rev. William A. Bachmann

???? – Rev. Anthony Zepp

???? – Rev. Gary D. Chmura

OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS

3644 Riverside

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1942

Our Lady of the Angels was founded in 1922 so the greatly increased population of West Park might have adequate religious care.  In 1904 the Franciscan Father of the Province of the Sacred Heart of Jesus were given permission to establish a monastery on Riverside Drive (now Rocky River Drive), West Park, Ohio.  On December 23, 1921, the Rev. Linus Koenemund asked permission to erect a fraternity of the Third Order of St. Francis in West Park.  On November 18, 1922, authorization was given to proceed with the establishment of a new parish, and on December 3, 1922, Rev. Columban Valentin was installed as first pastor.  Father Loenemund succeeded Father Columban on January 7, 1924, and in 1928 built an addition to the frame church.  Additional property to the north of the school was purchased in 1938 for the site of a new church.  The cornerstone was laid April 20, 1941.  It was dedicated December 8, 1941.

1922 – 1924 – Our Lady of the Angels – 3644 Riverside Drive, Rev. Columban Valentin

1924 - 1928 – Our Lady of the Angels – 3644 Riverside Rd., Rev. Linus Koenemund

OUR LADY OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT (AFRICAN-AMERICAN)

2354 East 79th

1924 - 1928 – Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament – 2354 E. 79th, Rev. Thos. McKenney

 SACRED HEART OF MARY – (POLISH)

This church was established in 1873 and was located on Broadview Road between Pearl Road and Brookmere Cemetery.  Priests from the Jesuit order ministered to the Catholics there. This was a mission church for them and they couldn’t offer Mass every weekend.  A fire destroyed this church in 1907.  The following year, the parishioners chose a more central location for the new church at 4423 Pearl Road.  Because of the large number of Germans in the area, the Diocese asked the German speaking segment of the Society of the Precious Blood to staff the parish.  This parish later became Our Lady of Good Counsel.

1873 – 1877 – Sacred Heart of Mary – Rev. Patrick Quigley

1879 – 1885 – Sacred Heart of Mary – Rev. Patrick Quigley

1908 – Sacred Heart of Mary – 3529 Broadview Rd., Rev. N.P. Weckel

1913 – Sacred Heart of Mary – Pearl near Bucyrus – Rev. Luke Rath

SACRED HEART OF JESUS (POLISH)

7007 Kazimier or 6916 Krakow

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

During the last two decades of the 19th century, growing numbers of Polish immigrants migrated from the area of St. Stanislaus Church down Marcelline Avenue (now E. 71st St.) to the Brecksville Road – Harvard Avenue area.  Recognizing the difficulties of traversing the area’s numerous gullies, the community purchased land on Marcelline Avenue between Krakow and Kazimier Avenues.  In the Spring of 1889, Father Anton F. Kolaszewski, pastor of St. Stanislaus, was appointed to supervise the construction of the first Sacred Heart of Jesus Church.  The community remained a mission of St. Stanislaus until August 6, 1891 when it received its first pastor, Father Felix Orzechowski.  Ground was broken for the current church in 1908. 

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland”, by WPA 1942

Between 1885 and 1889 a large number of Polish families settled in the neighborhood of Krakow Street and the Brecksville Road, now East 72st Street.  As there were no religious services available, the pastor of St. Stanislaus Church, Rev. Kolaszewski, organized a mission about 1888.  A site at Krakow Street and East 72st Street was purchased.  The cornerstone of the church was laid on September 29, 1889.  The church occupied the second floor, and the first floor served as the school.  On August 1, 1891, Rev. M.F. Orzechowski was appointed pastor of the new parish.  In 1892 a new parish house was built at 7007 Casimir Ave.  Larger quarters were soon necessary and in 1908 construction was started on the present church.  The present pastor is Rev. Stanislaus Rybacki. 

Most recently this church was located at 6916 Krakow Avenue. 

This church was on the list of church closures and was set to be closed before July 1, 2010.  THE FINAL MASS WAS ON MAY 2, 2010.

1889 - 1891 – Sacred Heart of Jesus – Brecksville Rd. at Krakow, Rev. Anton F. Kolaszewski

1891-1893 – Sacred Heart of Jesus – Brecksville Rd. at Krakow, Rev. Felix Orzechowski

1893-1895 – Sacred Heart of Jesus – Brecksville Rd. at Krakow, Rev. James Kula

1895-1899 – Sacred Heart of Jesus - Marcelline at Krakow, Rev. Paul Cwiakala

1900 - 1906 – Sacred Heart of Jesus – Marcelline at Krakow, Rev. Victor Szyrocki

1906-1908 – Sacred Heart of Jesus – E. 71st at Krakow, Rev. Victor Szyrocki

1908-1916 – Sacred Heart of Jesus – E. 71st at Kazimier, Rev. Victor Szyrocki

1916 - 1921 – Sacred Heart of Jesus – E. 71st at Kazimier, Rev. John Czyzak

1921 - 1932 – Sacred Heart of Jesus – E. 71st at Kazimier, Rev. John Mlotkowski

1932-???? – Sacred Heart of Jesus – E. 71st at Kazimier, Rev. Joseph Kocinski

1936 - 1953 – Sacred Heart of Jesus – E. 71st at Kazimier, Rev. Stanislaus Rybacki

1954-1975 – Rev. Francis J. Szczepanski

1975 -???? – Rev. Raymond Bartnikowski

Rev. Francis Bednar

ST. ADALBERT (BOHEMIAN)

2347 East 83rd

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

During the late 1870’s and early 1880’s, rapid industrialization in the west Broadway neighborhood surrounding St. Wenceslas Church led a number of its Bohemian parishioners to move further east beyond E. 55th Street.  The St. Adalbert Society was organized in 1882 in Stehlik’s Hall at Garden and Lincoln Avenues.  In 1883 permission was granted for the establishment of a church.  A church was built and first mass was celebrated in 1912.

This church was on the church closing list and was set to close in May, 2010.  THE FINAL MASS WAS ON JUNE 6, 2010.  IT APPEALED THE CLOSURE TO THE VATICAN AND THE APPEAL WAS GRANTED.  ST. ADALBERT REOPENED ON AUGUST 12, 2012, WITH REV. GARY CHMURA BEING ASSIGNED TO IT.

1888 - 1904 – St. Adalbert – Lincoln at Garden, Rev. John Malecha

1904 – Rev. John W. Becka

1906 – St. Adalbert – Lincoln near Central, Rev. Ladislas Kloucek

1908 – St. Adalbert – 2347 E. 83rd, Rev. Ladislas Kloucek

1913 - 1928 – St. Adalbert – 2347 E. 83rd, Rev. John Becka

1969 - 1978 – Rev. Gene Wilson

1978 – Rev. Jerome Steinbrunner

ST. AGNES (IRISH AND GERMAN)

Euclid Avenue and East 81st

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

St. Agnes began in 1888 when a group of Catholic women petitioned the Bishop to attend to the spiritual needs of the Hough neighborhood’s growing Irish and German families.

On April 29, 1893, St. Agnes was established at Euclid Avenue and Hilburn Avenue (now E. 81st Street) with Father Gilbert Jennings as the first pastor.  Construction of the new St. Agnes Church began and it was dedicated on June 18, 1916.  By 1949, parish membership was decreasing.  The isolation and frustration of the Hough Community soon escalated into violence.  In July, 1966, the neighborhood exploded.  The damage of the riots took a heavy toll on the St. Agnes community.  In 1972 the school closed and in 1973 the building was destroyed by fire.  The Diocese decided to raze the church and this took place on November 24, 1975.  Without a church, the parish continued to serve the Hough community, sponsoring a crisis ministry for the poor.  On March 30, 1980, St. Agnes Parish merged with Our Lady of Fatima Parish.

1893 - 1906 - St. Agnes – Euclid near Hillburn, Rev. Gilbert Jennings

1908 - 1941 – St. Agnes – Euclid near E. 81st, Rev. Gilbert Jennings

1941 - 1949 – Rev. Richard Gibbons

1949 - ????  – Rev. Floyd Begin

ST. ALOYSIUS (IRISH)

20932 St. Clair Avenue

From:  Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1942

The history of St. Aloysius began on January 7, 1898, when a small frame church at St. Clair and Doan, former home of the Glenville Methodist Church, was rented and a catechism class was formed.  The following year a site was purchased at St. Clair and Lake View Avenue.  On this plot was a two-story brick building, formerly a public school, which was altered for use as a temporary church.  In 1900 Rev. Joseph Smith was the first pastor.  In 1902 a brick building was erected, large enough to serve for many years as church, school and parish hall.  Rev. Francis Malloy succeeded Father Smith in 1903 and he purchased several parcels of land, among them the St. Clair Avenue frontage, upon which the present church and pastoral residence stand.   A temporary church was built in 1913 and this served until 1922 when the cornerstone of the present church was laid.  The church was consecrated March 19, 1925.  Rev. James T. Daley succeeded Monsignor Malloy in 1937.

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

Monsignor Joseph Smith received permission to establish a new Catholic parish in the Glenville area.  In 1898 ground was broken for a church and school.  A second church was erected at the corner of E. 109th and St. Clair Avenue.  St. Aloysius parish later merged with St. Agatha parish.

1898 - 1903 – St. Aloysius – 3090 St. Clair, Rev. Joseph F. Smith

1903 - 1913 – St. Aloysius – 3090 St. Clair, Rev. Francis A. Malloy

1913 - 1937 – St. Aloysius – 652 Lakeview Rd., Rev. Francis A. Malloy

1937 - 1956 – St. Aloysius - Rev. James T. Daley

1956 – ???? – St. Aloysius - Rev. Thomas J. Murphy

ST. ANDREW (SLOVAK)

5135 Superior Avenue

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

In the early 1900’s, Catholics of Slovak ancestry began settling on Cleveland’s northeast side.  It was difficult to attend St. Ladislas on E. 92nd or St. Martin on Scovill.  On May 6, 1906, the new St. Andrew community celebrated their first mass in St. Vitus school hall.  In October they purchased property at Superior Avenue and E. 52st Street.  The cornerstone was laid in November and the first mass celebrated on April 4, 1907.  A second newer church was dedicated on May 30, 1926.

1906 - 1908 – St. Andrew - 5135 Superior, Rev. Emil Sloupsky

1908 - 1922 – St. Andrew – 5135 Superior, Rev. Jas. Lisensky

1922 - 1928 – St. Andrew – 5105 Superior, Rev. Stanislaus Gmuca

1929 – St. Andrew – Rev. George Luba

1970 - 1976 – St. Andrew – Rev. William Novicky

1976 – St. Andrew – Rev. Raphael Zbin

ST. ANTHONY OF PADUA (ITALIAN)

1245 Carnegie

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

Italians first settled in the Ontario Street Market district known as the Haymarket in the vicinity of Central and Broadway Avenues.  This area was known as “Big Italy” and extended along Woodland and Orange Avenues from E. 9th Street to East 40th Street.  In July, 1886 Father Pacifico Capitani arrived from Rome and celebrated Mass in the chapel of St. John Cathedral.  Soon after, a frame hall on Ohio Street (now Central Avenue) was bought from a German Society.  This hall was blessed on May 8, 1887 and was dedicated to St. Anthony of Padua.  In 1904, the congregation built a red-brick church at E. 13th and Carnegie Avenue.  By the late 1920’s, the Italian population of “Big Italy” began to disperse to other Italian neighborhoods.  The decision was made to merge the parish with St. Bridget and to use the St. Bridget parish plant located at 2508 E. 22nd near Woodland.  St. Anthony’s Church building was transferred to the St. Maron congregation.  The new St. Anthony-St. Bridget parish would close in 1961 to make way for the proposed innerbelt freeway.

From:  Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1942

St. Anthony’s, the first Italian parish in Ohio, was founded in 1886 to care for the five or six hundred Italians living in Cleveland.  In July of that year, the Rev. Pacifico Capitani arrived from Rome, and for nearly a year he said mass in the chapel of St. John’s Cathedral.  The first church of the immigrant group was the remodeled Turner Hall property on Ohio Street (Central Avenue), which was dedicated to St. Anthony of Padua on May 8, 1887.  Father Capitani was first pastor.  Father Capitani was succeeded by Rev. Vincent Migliore in April 1899.  The beginning of the century saw an ever-increasing Italian population attending St. Anthony, and by 1903, when Rev. Umberto Rocchi succeeded Father Migliore, the need for a new church had become imperative.  In 1904, Father Rocchi built a commodious brick and stone church.  He remained with the parish until July, 1927, but before that the church had experienced a falling away in attendance as countrymen built houses at great distances from the church.  Father Rocchi’s successor, Rev. Francesco Clovis, served the parish until 1937.  Following his departure, Rev. John Humensky administered the parish for a year and in May, 1938, Rev. Achilles Ferreri took charge for three months.  Then, on August 5, 1938, Father Humensky was appointed resident pastor.  A month later, September 1938, the parishes of St. Anthony and St. Bridget were merged and Father Humensky was made pastor of the new church.  It was decided to abandon St. Anthony’s Church, and that building now houses St. Maron’s (Syrian) Catholic Church.

Another history:

St. Anthony's Church (1886-1961) was the first Roman Catholic parish to serve Italian immigrants in Cleveland's Haymarket area. Fr. Pacifico Capitani first held services for Italians at St. John Cathedral. A search was begun for a suitable church, and a frame hall on Ohio St. (Central Ave.) was purchased from a German Turners' society. Bp. Richard Gilmour dedicated the hall on 8 May 1887 and placed it under the patronage of St. Anthony. The congregation was too impoverished to afford a school, but the Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland provided religious instruction for children. In 1904 the congregation built a Romanesque red-brick church at E. 13th and Carnegie.  By 1929 the original neighborhood had begun to disperse, but St. Anthony's still remained the center of Italian religious and cultural life. On 18 Sept. 1938, St. Anthony's parish was merged with a nearby Irish church, St. Bridget's, located at 2508 E. 22nd near Woodland Ave., whose parishioners had moved farther east. St. Anthony's took over a well-made plant complete with a Gothic church and school. (The original St. Anthony's building was transferred to St. Maron congregation.) Shifts in population caused parish enrollment to drop below 200 families by the early 1960s; urban renewal and the proposed Innerbelt Freeway threatened further decline. The diocese closed St. Anthony's church and school; the last mass was held on 11 June 1961. Later that summer parish structures were demolished to accommodate the freeway. The remaining parishioners joined St. Joseph's Parish on Woodland Ave.

1886 – 1899 – St. Anthony of Padua – Ohio near Brownell, Rev. Pacifico Capitani

1899 - 1903 – St. Anthony of Padua – 197 Central, Rev. Vincent A. Migliore

1903 - 1906 – St. Anthony of Padua – 197 Central, Rev. Humbert Rocchi

1906 - 1913 – St. Anthony of Padua – Central at E. 13th, Rev. Humbert Rocchi

1913 - 1927 – St. Anthony of Padua – 1267 Central, Rev. Humbert Rocchi

1927 - 1937 – St. Anthony of Padua – 1267 Central, Rev. Francis Clovis

1937 - 1956 – St. Anthony of Padua – 1267 Central, Rev. John Humensky

1956 – 1961 – St. Anthony of Padua – Rev. Nazareno DeAngelis

ST. AUGUSTINE (IRISH)

2486 West 14th at the corner of Howard

The mission which later became St. Augustine Parish was instituted in 1860 to serve those communicants of St. Patrick's (Bridge Ave.) who lived in the vicinity of the Heights.  A small frame church was built at Tremont and Jefferson Streets.  In 1867 the mission became a parish with the Rev. Charles A. Grandmougin serving as pastor until his death in 1871.  He died from smallpox contracted in attending a parishioner.  He had built a parish house and started a school, which was placed in charge of the Sisters of St. Joseph.    The church was enlarged in 1877, but this was inadequate and the former Pilgrim Congregational Church on Jennings at Howard Street was purchased and remodeled for Catholic worship in 1896.  The school and pastoral residence remained on the original site until 1906 when a new parish house was built on W. 14th.  The present brick school was built at the rear of the parish house in 1908. 

This structure was built from 1865 to 1870 and is an excellent example of Victorian architecture. The designer was J.M. Blackburn.  Some alterations were made in 1896.  It is Victorian Gothic in style and features both rounded and arched window hoods and a high main entrance.  Painted brick-red with buff trim, the church is most distinctive.  The walls of the nave are faced with imitation stone; the timbered roof panels are green.  The altars are of white, the frontal of the high altar carrying a bas-relief of the Last Supper.  By the right altar, dedicated to St. Joseph with the Infant Jesus, stands a large statue of the church's patron, St. Augustine.  On the wall to the right of this statue is a marble memorial tablet to Father Grandmougin.  For some years the school and pastoral residence remained on the original site; and the old church was used as a chapel.  In 1906 a new parish house was built on Jennings Avenue.  The present brick school was built to the rear of the church in 1907 and a home for the Sisters in 1908.  The church is now home to St. Augustine Roman Catholic Church. This parish is known for its Hunger Center and its community outreach program.

Catholic Universe 12/20/1895:

St. Augustine's New Church

The people of St. Augustine's parish on the South Side, are to be congratulated on the acquisition of the Pilgrim church property, a commodious and substantial church edifice, situated in one of the most beautiful sections of the city.  Negotiations had been under way a long time, but the trustees and members of the Pilgrim congregation seemed disinclined to favor the idea of having a Catholic congregation for neighbors, and it is probably that the purchase would not have been effected, but for the fact that the agent of St. Augustine's congregation secured options on property in the immediate neighborhood.  When this became known, the Pilgrim trustees evinced more willingness to discuss the sale, but insisted on placing restrictions upon the property, that the purchasers were not willing to accept, but finally this feature was satisfactorily adjusted.  Some idea may be formed of the feeling existing among the Pilgrim congregation, from a statement made by the proprietor of the Jennings Avenue Hall in which an A.P.A. lodge held its meetings, to the effect that their rental was being paid by one of the trustees of Pilgrim church and this man was one of those with whom negotiations had to be made for the purchase of the church.  It is not probable that the pastor of St. Augustine's would have continued the negotiations after it was learned what kind of people had to be dealt with were it not that the price offered for the property was a great deal less than a new church could be built for.  The church is located on the corner of Jennings Ave. and Howard St., and the lot is 80 feet extending back about 200 feet.  The only alterations that will be necessary will be the changing of a part of the font of the church, the removal of the organ from the rear to the gallery and the construction of the alter.  This church is furnished with upholstered pews, a large gallery extends half way around the sides, a bell of fine tone hangs in the belfry and the basement is high and has good light and was used for Sunday school purposes.  The seating capacity is about 700.  The purchase price of $20,000 includes a splendid pipe organ.  $5000 has been paid and the remainder will be paid as soon as the trustees receive legal permission to make the conveyance.

Plain Dealer 5/19/1907:

St. Augustine's School, which is being built on 1413 Howard Ave. near W. 14th St., at a cost of $50,000 will be completed by the time the fall term of school opens.  The building, 100 x 70 feet, is being constructed of concrete and steel, and will be of English architecture.  It will have four stories.  On the first floor will be bowling alleys, billiard and poolrooms, a gymnasium and baths.  The second floor will be devoted to school rooms, four on each floor while an auditorium will be on the fourth floor.  W.W. Hodges designed the structure.

Cleveland Leader 5/3/1908:

New school will open this week

St. Augustine's new school will be opened formally Thursday evening.  The exercises will consist of a lecture on the "Ideal Citizen" by P.J. O'Keefe, attorney-at-law, of Chicago; readings by Miss Bessie Brennan of the Cleveland School of Expression.  The school is built of selected shale brick, trimmed with sandstone.  It is a strictly fireproof building, the interior being of steel and concrete.  The entire basement space is set aside for club purposes and is supplied with bowling alleys, gymnasium, billiard rooms, bath, reading room and library.  The first and second floors will be used for school rooms.  The third floor is a commodious auditorium that will seat 800 people.  The stage is thoroughly equipped and the acoustics admirable.

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

In 1860, to meet the needs of the growing Catholic population on Cleveland's South Side (Tremont), Bishop Amadeus Rappe purchased a lot on Jefferson Street and built a small frame church.  St. Augustine Church was a mission of the Cathedral until February 1867, when Father Charles Alphonsus Grandmougin was named first resident pastor. He built a rectory on Tremont Street and started a school.  On November 20, 1871, he died of smallpox contracted on a sick call.  Parishioners erected a plaque in his honor which still hangs in the church.  A new school building was erected in 1876 and the church was enlarged the following year.  In 1877, the Sisters of St. Joseph began staffing the school.  As neighborhood growth continued, it became evident that the parish plant was inadequate.  In December, 1895, Father John O'Connor purchased the original building of Jennings Road Congregational Church (now Pilgrim Church) on the corner of Jennings Road (West 14 Street) and Howard Street for $20,000.  The church was renovated for Catholic use and dedicated on April 26, 1896.  Gradually, the parish erected facilities on their new site:  a rectory (1904), a fire proof school (1907-08), and also purchased a house for the convent (1911).  The Jefferson Street property was sold and the buildings demolished (except the still-standing rectory).  The Great Depression began a period of struggle and decline at St. Augustine.  Father Francis Collins organized special collections for the needy.  His successor, Father William Walsh, and the parishioners struggled to keep the parish financially afloat through fund raising, especially a bingo game known throughout the city.  After WWII people increasingly left Tremont for the suburbs.  On February 27, 1964, Father John Wilson was appointed Administrator (rather than pastor), a sign, perhaps, of St. Augustine's fragility.  That month, St. Augustine lost some territory to St. Emeric Church.  In June, St. Augustine School closed.  Then, Father Thomas Sebian left St. Augustine for the new Diocesan Mission Team in El Salvador and the Hispanic ministry he had begun at St. Augustine waned.  With Father Wilson came the Catholic Deaf Community.  At first, they remained separate, but in the last twenty years, they have become fully participating members of St. Augustine.  Similarly, the Catholic Blind Community came in the early 1970's when Father John Krasen was Chaplain.  After Father Joseph McNulty was named their Chaplain and Pastor of St. Augustine in 1977, they too became part of St. Augustine.  In 1973, the St. Vincent de Paul conference was reorganized.  In 1975, the holiday meal program began with Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter dinners.  The weekly soup program begun in 1976 has grown into a daily meal program, with special attention to the last two weeks of the month when the need is the greatest.  The parish celebration of its 100th anniversary on West Fourteenth Street in October 1996 was a pledge of continued ministry to all God's people.

ST. AUGUSTINE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH by R.K. Bankaitis

Westward expansion, and the opportunity for land investment (speculation), in 1832 attracted Nathan Baldwin and Associates, a Buffalo company and its investors to form Ohio City.  In 1835 Cleveland mayor, John Willey with Ed Clark and Richard Hilliard formed John Willey & Associates.  Collectively they bought land and founded Willeyville, which was connected to Cleveland over the Cuyahoga River at the Columbus Street Bridge.  This area, later known as Tremont, did not pan out and both Nathan Baldwin & Assoc. along with John Willey & Assoc. went bankrupt.  Geographical factors had served to isolate this area with the Cuyahoga River along the north and east, with Willey Run (Walworth Run) along the north and west.   (Orth, 1910; Klein, 2002)

Tree Mount, or Tremont was an area of Brooklyn Township and Ohio City currently located on Cleveland's near west side.  In 1836 the boundaries were the Cuyahoga River in the north and east, dependant on the source, with Fulton Avenue or West 25th on the west, and Clark Avenue or Harvard Avenue and the Harvard-Denison Bridge.  (Van Tassel; Grabowsky, 1987).

From 1836 to 1854, section by section, Ohio City was annexed to Cleveland.  In the meantime, the area known as the "Hights" was annexed by Ohio City politicians.  (Van Tassel; Grabowsky, 1987).  On the verge of bankruptcy, Ohio City was finally fully absorbed by Cleveland.  The area flourished, becoming an exclusive residential neighborhood known as University Heights.

By 1860 an existing mission was formed into St. Augustine Church.  The communicants of St. Patrick's parish were too far away, and to serve the needs of a growing Irish population, a large lot was purchased at the intersection of Tremont Street and Jefferson Avenue.  Initially the front half of a small frame church was built and as the congregation organized, the structure was enlarged to 110 feet by 40 feet.  (Kaczynski, 1988).  The Rev. William Walsh was assigned as the first pastor, but during the first six years, St. Augustine existed as a serving mission of St. Johns Cathedral.  This English (Irish) congregation was served by priests from the cathedral; the Reverends T. Carroll, J.F. Gallagher, and T.M. Mahoney.  St. Augustine served in this capacity until 1867.  Being close to the backbone of the "Heights", Jennings Road assisted in the creation of a parochial school.  This was first established in 1868 and for some time, classes were held in the church.  As many as four schools were run from St. Augustine parish.

The future home of St. Augustine was built by the Pilgrim Congregational Church at the corner of Jennings Avenue and Belviour (Howard) Street in 1865. 

February of 1867, the newly ordained Father Charles Alphonsus Grandmougin was appointed as the first resident pastor of St. Augustine.  On Jefferson Avenue, a commodious brick pastoral residence was built for $3,000.  It still stands today, though in a sad state of repair due to fire damage.  Father Grandmougin started a school and placed it in the charge of the Sisters of St. Joseph, who administer the parish programs to this day.  While on a house call to an ill parishioner, Fr. Grandmougin contracted smallpox and died on November 21, 1871.  He's laid to rest in St. Joseph Cemetery off of Woodland Avenue.

June 16, 1874, transportation improved as the Southside Railroad Company opened a tram line operating from Seneca between Superior and Franklin Place in Cleveland, running southeast to Scranton Road, then to Jennings Road and out to the city limits.  The line was extended twice to Fairfield in 1879 and finally to Clark Ave. in 1889.  (Orth, 1910)

Rev. W.J. Gibbons was the pastor intermittently until 1875.  The duties were shared with Rev. Edward Meors, whose temporary posting became permanent in 1877.  During this time a large and comfortable wood frame schoolhouse was erected in 1875-1876.  The current wood frame structure became inadequate and was enlarged.  A chapel was added and the interior was improved.  On February 1, 1877, W.J. Gibbons was reappointed as the permanent pastor.  As the chapel was dedicated on December 9, 1877, the current campus consisted of the church and four schools staffed by the Sisters of St. Joseph.  The appointment of Rev. Michael Murphy on July 5, 1879 expanded the parish grounds with the purchase of two lots and a house adjoining east of the church property for $3,000.  By August 19, 1988, the pastor Rev. John O'Connor deemed the structure to be inadequate.  In 1895, after long and contentious negotiation, the current property at Jennings Ave. (W. 14th) and Howard Street was purchased for $20,000.  The Pilgrim Church did not want to sell to Catholics.  Every action which bigotry could dictate was used to prevent this acquisition.  (Houck, 1903).  According to Father Joseph McNulty, Father John O'Connor, the then resident pastor implied that the property across Howard Street on W. 14th St. will be used to build a Catholic Church, much to the horror of the other Christian houses of worship.  (McNulty, 2003).  After about a year's worth of remodeling the structure was finally dedicated on April 26, 1896.  St. Augustine continued to use the old structure as a chapel until 1911, while maintaining the school and pastoral residence at the original site. 

Depending on the source, the new rectory was built; according to Kaczynski in 1904, or in 1906.  Father Raymond Mylott from 1907 to 1908 built a fireproof school and also a convent was built for the Sisters of St. Joseph.  In 1911, a house was purchased east of the rectory and church on W. 14th St. where the convent is currently located.  On the Jefferson St. property, all the structures except the rectory building were demolished.

By 1917, there was a schism in the unity of the Roman Catholic Church, as the Slovak population in the Southside wanted a new parish.  St. Wendelin’s Slovak Catholic Church was too distant.  Rev. Farrelly suggested the Slovaks send their children to St. Augustine.  In December 1918, lightning struck the steeple, causing a fire which resulted in its removal. 

After World War II people started leaving Tremont in increasing numbers.  During the 1960's, to serve the influx of the Puerto Rican population into the community, St. Augustine adopted a Spanish Liturgy.  The Spanish Ministry eventually moved to St. Michaels.

The true decline of Tremont and St. Augustine began with the construction of I-71.  This destroyed a large number of homes, about 25,000 to 26,000, and served to isolate the remaining neighborhood from the rest of Cleveland.  The school building, built in 1908, was closed in 1964.  St. Augustine school building did not remain closed for long.  In June of 1965, work began to remodel this facility for mentally retarded students.  On November 19, 1965 the facility for the St. Augustine Special School opened and continues to serve those mentally retarded students who were not accepted in regular schools.  Sister Mary Fidella was one of three specially trained staff members of the Sisters of St. Joseph to practice in this teaching specialty.

Sources:

"The Church in Northern Ohio and in the Diocese of Cleveland From 1749 to 1890 by George F. Houck, 1890

"People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

"Introduction to Urban Studies", 2002 by Richard Klein PhD

"A History of Cleveland Ohio Volume 1, 1910, by Samuel P. Orth

Interviews with Rev. Joseph D. McNulty

HISTORY OF SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH OF ST. AUGUSTINE

St. Augustine was the 9th parish in the Diocese of Cleveland.  It was founded in 1860 at the southeast corner of Tremont and Jefferson Streets.  At this time, it was not an independent parish, but an appendage of the Cathedral Parish.  From 1860-1867 a priest came to offer Mass.  In 1867, Rev. Alphons Grandmougin was appointed as pastor.  The school was immediately organized in 1867.  Men taught from 1867-1874.  The Sisters of St. Joseph taught from 1874-1946.  The Sisters lived at the Motherhouse on Starkweather, which then became the parish hall of St. Theodosius.  In 1906 Father O'Connor moved to the new rectory on W. 14th.  The Sisters then moved to the former rectory.  In 1911 the convent was transferred to the present location on W. 14th and this was the last connection with the original convent location on Starkweather.

ANOTHER HISTORY OF SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH

St. Augustine parish was founded in 1860 by Bishop Amadeus Rappe, but it did not begin to function as a separate parish until 1867.  From 1860 to 1867, St. Augustine parish was an appendage of the Cathedral parish.  In 1867, the new pastor, Rev. Alphons Grandmougin organized a parochial school.  Whether sisters taught the parish school at this time cannot be ascertained from the records.  It has been reported that men (possible brothers) first taught in the parish school.

Father J.P. Carroll was appointed in July, 1872 and early records stated that he was devoted to Catholic education.  It is possible that in 1872 the Sisters of St. Joseph started to teach in the parish.  The record does not indicate the exact date, nor does it give the sisters' names at that early date.  The first sisters who taught in the parish lived at the Motherhouse on Starkweather Avenue, about 3 blocks away.

When the "new school" (present building) was opened in Sept. 1908 the teaching staff was composed of Sister Stanislaus (first grade), Sister Lucille (second and third grade), Sister Annetta (fourth grade).  Sister Annetta also gave piano lessons after school and on Saturday.  Sister Laurence (fifth and sixth grade), Sister Veronica (7th and 8th grade). Sister Michaella taught the 8th grade for some time, and also the two-year Commercial Course.  Sisters Michaella and Veronica had charge of the church and servers.

Mary Jane Ryan, born Oct. 27, 1868, now Mrs. Hurley, residing in Blessed Sacrament Parish said she was in the first grade 72 years ago when our sisters took charge of St. Augustine School.  This would indicate that our sisters first taught there in 1874.  Chancery records state 1877.

Mrs. Ryan states that the teachers in 1874 were Sisters Angela (entered 1876) Josephine (1877) Celestia Gitlin (1873) and Loretta (1883).  These sisters could not have taught there in 1874 - several were not in the community at that time.

1867-1872 – St. Augustine – Wood and Jefferson Streets, Rev. F. Grammonschett

1872 – St. Augustine – Tremont and Jefferson – Rev. W.O. Higgins

1874 – St. Augustine – Tremont and Jefferson, Rev. J.P. Carroll

1874-1877 – St. Augustine – Tremont and Jefferson, Rev. E. Meors

1874 - 1879 – St. Augustine – Tremont and Jefferson, Rev. J.W. Gibbons

1879 - 1887 – St. Augustine – Tremont and Jefferson, Rev. Michael Murphy

1888 - 1906 – St. Augustine – Tremont and Jefferson, Rev. John O’Connor

1906 - St. Augustine - Tremont and Jefferson, Rev. John Scullen

1906 - 1921 – St. Augustine – W. 14th at Howard, Rev. Raymond Mylott

1924 – St. Augustine – W. 14th at Howard, Rev. John Nolan

1925 - 1928 – St. Augustine – W. 14th at Howard, Rev. Francis Collins

1936 - St. Augustine - W. 14th at Howard, Rev. William Walsh

1964 - St. Augustine - W. 14th at Howard, Rev. John Wilson

1970s - St. Augustine - W. 14th at Howard, Rev. John Krasen

1977 - St. Augustine - W. 14th at Howard, Rev. Joseph McNulty

ST. BARBARA (POLISH)

1505 Denison Avenue

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

In 1905, a small group of Polish Catholics living near Henninger Road in South Brooklyn formed St. Barbara Parish.  They were joined by a number of families which crossed the Cuyahoga River Valley from their homes in the vicinity of East Denison Avenue.  They originally celebrated mass at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church and later at the firehouse on West 23rd Street and Broadview Road.  They soon purchased land at Valley Road and Elston Avenue and on Christmas Day, 1907, they celebrated the first mass in their new building.  In 1916 a fire completely destroyed the church.  While looking for another location, the congregation held services in the Woodsmen of the World Hall on Denison Avenue and West 25th Street.  They then purchased land at the intersection of West 15th and Denison.  The current church was completed by 1952. 

This church was on the church closing list and was set to close before July 1, 2010.  THE FINAL MASS WAS ON MAY 9, 2010.  IT APPEALED THE CLOSURE AND THE APPEAL WAS GRANTED BY THE VATICAN.  ST. BARBARA REOPENED ON JULY 22, 2012 WITH THE REV. JOSEPH HILINSKI BEING ASSIGNED TO IT.

Excerpt from an article from the Old Brooklyn News:

Rev. Richard Lennon officiated at the closing mass at St. Barbara's on Sunday, May 9th. St. Barbara’s had served the Brooklyn Centre neighborhood and Polish Catholics in this area for 105 years, and the parish isn’t going down without a fight. Financially very secure and willing to share a pastor with another Polish parish (St. John Cantius in Tremont) they are among the Diocesan parishes which have appealed their closing to Rome.

Inside the church on May 9th the mood was somber but dignified. The choir sounded almost angelic, and Polish hymns were included. Former Associate Pastor (1958-1962) and Pastor (1970-1997) Fr. Chester Cudnik was not in good enough health to be present, but Fr. John Bryk, the retired pastor of the now closed St. Hedwig Church in Lakewood was on the altar with the Bishop and the latest Administrator (2007-2010), Fr. Lucjan Stokowski.

The unexpected death of Fr. Michael Dyrcz, the last full-time administrator of St. Barbara Church (1997-2007), was announced before the closing liturgy began. Fr. Mike died at his home in Chardon three days before the parish closed.

Although the church was comfortably full with past and present parishioners and sympathetic neighbors and friends, a number of parishioners refused to/were psychologically unable to attend the closing Mass. A contingent from Endangered Catholics, peacefully picketed outside the church before and during the service.

There was no dinner or party after St. Barbara’s closed. Instead, after the three masses the preceding weekend, parishioners were invited to socialize over coffee and donuts in the church hall.

1907 - 1908 – St. Barbara - 4149 Valley Rd., Rev. Albert Migdalski

1911 - 1918 – St. Barbara - 4149 Valley Rd., Rev. Paul Szulerecki

1921 – St. Barbara – 1510 Denison, Rev. J.M. Zeglen

1924 – St. Barbara – 1510 Denison, Rev. John Solinski

1928 – St. Barbara – 1505 Denison, Rev. Leo Sztupek

1929 - 1970 – St. Barbara – 1505 Denison, Rev. Joseph Jarosz

1970 - ???? – St. Barbara – Rev. Chester C. Cudnik

ST. BASIL – SYRIAN

2231 East 9th

1908 – St. Basil - 2231 E. 9th, Rev. Basil Marcha

ST. BONIFACE (GERMAN AND HUNGARIAN)

3545 West 54th

From:  "Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1942

St. Boniface Parish was founded in 1903 to serve the Catholic families, mostly of German and Hungarian origin, residing in the distant southwest section of St. Stephen’s parish.  In 1904, Rev. Casimir Reichlin, who had previously purchased eight lots at Poplar and Iona (54th and 52nd) Streets, erected on them a combination church and school which was dedicated that year.  Rev. Adolph Seeholzer was appointed first pastor on October 25, 1904.  In 1906 Father Seeholzer acquired the Storer homestead fronting on Denison Avenue.  The large barn in the rear of the Storer homestead was remodeled into much needed school rooms.  Father Seeholzer died in 1926 and was succeeded by Rev. George Reber.  Father Reber died on November 16, 1940, and the present pastor, Rev. Joseph M. Trapp was appointed on December 8, 1940. 

1904 - 1906 – St. Boniface – Poplar near Denison, Rev. Adolph Seeholzer

1906 - 1924 – St. Boniface – W. 54th near Denison, Rev. Adolph Seeholzer

1926 - 1940 – St. Boniface, 3555 W. 54th, Rev. George Reber

1940 - ???? – St. Boniface, 3555 W. 54th, Rev. Joseph M. Trapp

ST. BRIDGET (IRISH)

2504 East 22nd

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

Before May, 1857, the Irish Catholics living in the vicinity of Woodland Avenue and Perry Street originally worshipped at the Cathedral.  They built a small brick church on Perry Street and it was named St. Bridget parish.  For seven years priests from St. John Cathedral and St. Mary Seminary held services for the parish until Father Denis Tighe was appointed the first resident pastor.  Construction began on a new church in 1871 and it was completed in 1879.  Parishioners finally moved out of the neighborhood, many moving to Glenville and attending St. Thomas Aquinas.  It was decided to merge St. Bridget and St. Anthony of Padua.  This took place in 1938.  The parish known as St. Anthony-St. Bridget was sold to the State of Ohio for the Inner Belt Freeway in 1961.

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1942

Originally founded as a mission of St. John’s Cathedral in 1857, St. Bridget did not have a pastor until the appointment of Rev. Dennis Tighe in 1864.  Father Tighe lived in a small house in the rear of the lot where Charity Hospital now stands, and a frame butcher shop which he bought and moved to the parish site served as the school house.  Rev. James Monahan was appointed after Father Tighe’s death.  He purchased a residence adjoining the church property, and in the spring of 1871 broke ground for a new church.  He was prevented from erecting it because of differences arising as to the cost.  Father Monahan was succeeded by Rev. Bernard B. Kelley.  He built a frame school house and the foundation of the new church.  He was succeeded by Rev. Patrick J. McGuire in 1874.  The church debt was cleared by Rev. William McMahon who took over in 1876.  Much of the labor on the present church was performed by the men of the parish at night, after they had worked at the steel mills all day.  The first mass was said on Christmas morning, 1877, in the basement.  Two years later the structure was completed.  Father McMahon remained as pastor until 1909.  His successor was Rev. J.F. Collins and he remained for 16 years.  He was followed by Rev. Richard Brennan, 1925-1931, William Ring, 1931-1934, and Rev. George Martin, 1934-1938.  St. Bridget merged with St. Anthony on September 18, 1938, and the Rev. John Humensky of St. Anthony was appointed pastor.

1864 – 1866 – St. Bridget – Perry north of Kinsman, Rev. Dennis Tighe

1866 - 1872 – St. Bridget – Perry north of Kinsman, Rev. James Monahan

1872 - 1874 – St. Bridget – Perry near Woodland, Rev. Bernard B. Kelley

1874 - 1876 - St. Bridget - Perry near Woodland, Rev. Patrick J. McGuire

1876 - 1909 – St. Bridget – Perry near Woodland, Rev. William McMahon

1909 - 1925 – St. Bridget – 2504 E. 22nd, Rev. Jas. Collins

1925 - 1931 – St. Bridget – 2504 E. 22nd, Rev. Richard Brennan

1931 – 1934 – St. Bridget – 2504 E. 22nd, Rev. William Ring

1934 – 1938 – St. Bridget – 2504 E. 22nd, Rev. George Martin

ST. CASIMIR (POLISH)

8223 Sowinski

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1942

In 1891, the rapidly growing Polish settlement in the East 79th Street – Superior Avenue district prompted the division of the St. Stanislas Parish to form Cleveland’s third Polish congregation named St. Casimir’s.  The Rev. Benedict Rosinski, pastor of St. Adalbert’s Berea, was appointed to take charge.  In January, 1892, the church received from Joseph Hoffman, a German Catholic property owner, a donation of a parcel of land facing on Pulaski, Kossuth, and Sowinski Streets.  On May 15, 1892, the cornerstone was laid and on Christmas Day, 1892, the first service was held.  The present church was built in 1918, during the pastorate of Rev. Charles Ruszkowski, who died in 1919.  The present pastor, Rev. Andrew A. Radecki, has been in charge since 1924.

Church Closing Spurs Walkout on Bishop - November 8, 2009 - ST. CASIMIR'S

CLEVELAND - A large portion of the congregation at St. Casimir's Catholic Church walked out on Bishop Richard Lennon as he said the parish's final mass.  St. Casimir's, an ethnic Polish parish on Cleveland's near east side, is the latest victim of a decision by the diocese to close a number of churches in the face of difficult finances.  As Bishop Lennon approached the podium, many people stood and turned their backs on him and walked towards the rear of the church. They then paused and sang a Polish anthem.  "It's terrible, terrible, terrible," said Eleanor Stanish, a long-time parishioner who hoped to have her funeral said some day at St. Casimir's. "I don't know what's wrong with that bishop."  Bishop Lennon has made it a practice to say the final mass at a church that is closing. He expressed his sadness at this day, and a few people offered words of understanding. One man said, "If you got to close it, you got to close it. All the families are moving out."  But many others expressed anger - especially because some people claim to still have an appeal pending with the Vatican to keep the church opened. "This church is still on appeal," one woman shouted at Bishop Lennon. "You have no business being here."  Earlier in the day, a final, beautiful mass had been said in Polish. Mostly, the day was filled with a deep sense of loss. "We're not going to have any of our traditions left in Cleveland," one older parishioner.  A moment later, a younger woman wondered where her children would one day go to church. "Oh, it's so sad," she said. "Why are they closing it... why?"

THIS CHURCH WAS ONE OF THOSE CLOSED IN THE CLEVELAND DIOCESE DOWNSIZING.  THE FINAL MASS WAS ON NOVEMBER 8, 2009.  IT APPEALED THE CLOSURE AND THE APPEAL WAS GRANTED BY THE VATICAN.  ST. CASIMIR REOPENED ON JULY 15, 2012 WITH REV. ERIC ORZECH BEING ASSIGNED THERE.

1894 – St. Casimir – Sobieski near Ansel, Rev. Benedykt Rosinski

1894 - 1895 – St. Casimir – Sobieski near Ansel, Rev. Stanislaw Wozny

1895 - 1899 – St. Casimir – Kossuth at Pulaski, Rev. Francis N. Fremel

1899 - 1903 – St. Casimir – Kossuth at Pulaski, Rev. Constantin Lazinski

1903 - 1906 – St. Casimir – Kossuth at Pulaski, Rev. Ignatius Pitrowski

1906 - 1912 – St. Casimir – E. 82nd at Pulaski, Rev. Ignatius Piotrowski

1912 – 1912 – St. Casimir – Rev. Paul Kosczy

1912 – 1919 – St. Casimir - Rev. Charles Ruszkowski

1918 - 1921 – St. Casimir – 8223 Sowinski, Rev. J. Solinski

1921 - 1924 – St. Casimir – 8223 Sowinski, Rev. Louis Redmer

1924 - 1967 – St. Casimir – 8223 Sowinski, Rev. Andrew Radecki

1967 – St. Casimir – 8223 Sowinski, Rev. Stanley Cymanski

ST. CATHERINE

9412 Heath

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1942

St. Catherine Parish was established in 1899 as a mission for the members of Holy Name Parish living in that section.  Services were first held in a frame church erected at the corner of Heath and E. 93rd Streets.  This building was destroyed by fire in March 1899, and the same year a new temporary church was built in the rear of the site of the present school.  In January, 1900, Rev. James J. Quinn was appointed first pastor.  He purchased a frontage of almost 200 feet on Haddock Street (St. Catherine Avenue).  Father Quinn built the rectory in 1908.  The present church was erected in 1915.  Consecration cemeteries were on October 24, 1929.  After the death of Father Quinn in November, 1932, the present pastor, Rev. Charles J. Moseley was appointed.    

1900 - 1906 – St. Catherine – Woodland Hills at Heath, Rev. James Quinn

1908 - 1918 – St. Catherine – E. 93rd at Heath, Rev. James Quinn

1921 – St. Catherine – E. 93rd at St. Catharine, Rev. J.J. Quinn

1924 - 1932 – St. Catherine – 3447 E. 93rd, Rev. J.J. Quinn

1932 – 1942 – St. Catherine – 3447 E. 93rd, Rev. Charles J. Moseley

ST. CECILIA

3476 East 152nd

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

St. Cecilia Parish began with a November, 1913 meeting of the Catholic residents of Cleveland’s Mount Pleasant neighborhood.  Father John T. Farrell was the first pastor.  The parish celebrated their first Mass in 1915 in the living room of the Daniel O’Reilly family home.  It then constructed a church at E. 152nd and Kinsman Road.  From the beginning, this parish attracted worshipers from the Czech, German, Hungarian, Irish, Italian, Japanese, and Polish.

This church was on the church closure list and was set to close before July 1, 2010.  THE FINAL MASS WAS ON APRIL 25, 2010.

1918 - 1921 – St. Cecilia – 13719 Kinsman, Rev. John T. Farrell

1927 – St. Cecilia – 15001 Kinsman, Rev. John Farrell

1928 - 1941 – St. Cecilia – 15001 Kinsman, Rev. Edward Kirby

1942 - 1955 – Rev. John T. Ruffing

1955 – Rev. John Tivenan

1988 – Rev. Daniel Begin

ST. CHARLES BORROMEO – PARMA

1924 – 1928 – St. Charles – Ridge Road and Wilbur, Rev. N.F. Monaghan

ST. COLMAN (IRISH)

2027 West 65th

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

Eugene O’Callaghan was appointed as the community’s first pastor.  They worshiped in an abandoned school house on Pear Street.  The first mass was on July 25, 1880. The current church was consecrated on October 17, 1918.

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1942

The present St. Colman’s Parish was founded in 1880, but even before 1870 a site for a church has been purchased on the corner of Gordon Avenue (W. 65th) and Bayne Street (Wakefield Ave).  When the little property was sold five or six years later, the proceeds were contributed to St. Patrick’s (the mother church).  It was decided to establish a new parish, and Rev. E.M. O’Callaghan, then pastor of St. Patrick, voluntarily resigned his office in order to assist the new undertaking.  The first mass was said for the parish on July 25, 1880 in a one-room frame building on Pear Avenue.  On July 29, 1880, two lots were purchased on Gordon Avenue.  Mass was celebrated in the new church September 26, 1880, and until the present church was completed 38 years after, all services were held there.  When Father O’Callaghan died in March 1901, the parish owned a dozen city lots, its membership had increased to more than 500 families.  Rev. James O’Leary succeeded Father O’Callaghan on June 30, 1901.  He built the great stone church during the years 1914 to 1918.  He resigned in 1922 and Rev. Charles Alfred Martin, the present pastor, took charge. 

History from:  http://www.stcolmanparish.org/history

St. Colman Parish was founded in 1880 by Msgr. Eugene Mary O’Callaghan, formerly Pastor of St. Patrick’s Parish on Bridge Avenue, to serve the growing Irish immigrant population of Cleveland's West Side. The original Church was a modest house at 6600 Pear Street, which was the site of the first St. Colman's Mass on July 25, 1880.

The first Church building was constructed later the same year on Gordon Street, (later known as West 65 Street) and the rented house became the home to St. Colman School. This was replaced in 1885 with a frame School building also on Gordon Street.

In 1886, Sisters of St. Joseph (CSJ) came to St. Colman's and the first Convent was built. The Sisters began a long history of service to the people of the Parish and to the neighborhood. A new rectory was constructed in 1889 and in 1904, a red brick Schoolhouse was built, with 12 classrooms on the lower two floors and meeting rooms on the third floor. The basement had a 1,000-seat auditorium used for meetings and theatrical productions and also served as an auxiliary chapel.

In 1914, the present Church building was begun on the grounds and was completed in 1918 under the second Pastor, Fr. James O'Leary. Fr. O'Leary traveled to Italy to buy marble for the interior and had it sent to Dublin, commissioning sculptors there to carve the Baptismal Font (Edmund Sharpe, sculptor), Pulpit (unknown artist), and the Communion Rail (unknown artists). The altars and statues were done in Italy It was important to Fr. O'Leary that some of the work was done by Irish craftsmen since, in the early part of the 20th century, Irish immigrants (like many other immigrants) were looked down upon. The eight paintings that hang in the nave were painted by Cleveland artist Dollie Bond.

The other buildings on the grounds today were built soon after the Church was completed: The Convent (c. 1921), the second School Building (c. 1930) at the corner of West 65 Street and Madison Avenue which served as a Business High School for girls from 1930 to 1936, and the Rectory (1930).

In 1953, a tornado that raged through Cleveland’s West Side damaged the Church destroying the organ and part of the original slate roof. The high winds blew off the statue of the Sacred Heart that originally stood at the peak of the gabled front entrance. The organ was replaced by a smaller model, the roof was repaired with asphalt and the Sacred Heart statue was moved to the yard south of the Church.

In the late 1960's the lower Church was closed; twenty years later a Parish Hall was made in the space. In 1997, a major restoration was completed in the Church, paid for by contributions from current and past parishioners. Seventy-nine years of pollution were cleaned from the marble and the original paint colors were restored throughout the interior.

In 1974, the 1904 St. Colman School closed and the building was razed in 1975. Sr. Lucy Dragonette, CSJ, and Sr. Carol English, CSJ, founded one of the West Side’s first pre-schools from 1974 to 2000 in the c. 1930 St. Colman School Building. Many of the Sisters of St. Joseph that had served as teachers in the School, including Sr. Audrey Koch, CSJ, Sr. Kathleen Kilbane, CSJ, Sr. Ann Kilbane, CSJ, Sr. Lucy and Sr. Carol, remained at the Parish after the School closed to serve as Pastoral Associates, contributing toward the Sisters’ seamless presence to the people of the Parish from 1886 to the present day.

In 1994, Sr. Lucy Dragonette, CSJ, and Sr. Carol English, CSJ, became Parish Administrators, appointed by Bishop Anthony Pilla as some of the first women to serve in this role in a Cleveland Parish.

In 1996, the Parish Council and Srs. Carol and Lucy discussed the great number people with emergencies that were coming to the Parish for assistance – requests for help with rent to prevent evictions, utility assistance, food, and many other urgent situations were increasing. It was decided that the Parish would seek funding for an Outreach Minister to add to the staff to begin responding directly to these requests. In 1997, funding was received from the Congregation of St. Joseph’s Ministry fund and Eileen Kelly was hired. The Outreach Ministry now serves hundreds of people each year and includes: the every day at the door ministry to respond to emergency needs and to make referrals to existing programs; staffing the Church in the City Partnership with St. Christopher in Rocky River and Our Lady Help of Christians in Litchfield; the Neighborhood Meal with over 30 parishes and schools including the Church in the City Partners and Project SEVA; the Identification Crisis in Cleveland Program (with 10 other community agencies) providing Birth Certificates and ID’s to thousands of people so that they can work, get medical treatment, vote, and many other necessities; the August School Supplies program for nearly 2000 children; Holiday distribution of gifts; many other direct service programs, as the needs arise, for the people of the Parish and neighborhood.

In 2006, the Sisters of St. Joseph ended their residence in the Convent but continued to serve as Pastoral Associates.

From 2000 to 2006, El Barrio, a social service program for Spanish speaking residents, served the neighborhood from the second floor of the School. From 1998 to 2006, Seeds of Literacy, a ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph, served the neighborhood from the first floor of the School.

In 1998, in response to Bishop Pilla’s Pastoral Letter, “Church in the City,” a partnership that continues today was formed with the people of St. Christopher Parish, Rocky River, and Our Lady, Help of Christians, Litchfield.

In 2001, Sr. Lucy and Sr. Carol retired, and Sr. Ann Kilbane, CSJ, was appointed Parish Life Coordinator by Bishop Pilla.

In 2002, the asphalt roof and the original slate roof of the Church were replaced with slate-like asphalt shingles.

In 2005, Colman Court opened on the former site of the School building, providing 1-bedroom HUD-subsidized apartments for 33 senior citizens.

In 2007, Edna House for Women, an alcohol recovery program, moved in to the Convent Building to serve the neighborhood.

In 2007, Sr. Ann retired and Fr. Robert T. Begin was appointed Pastor by Bishop Richard Lennon.

In 2007, Bishop Richard Lennon clustered St. Colman Parish with the Parishes of St. Stephen, St. Procop, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel and La Sagrada Familia.

On November 18, 2007, St. Colman Day was celebrated for the first time in memory and the illustrious service of the Sisters of St. Joseph was honored. Almost 200 Sisters were present along with 700 Parishioners and friends of the Parish.

In 2008, the second floor of the School building became home for the City’s first African Educational and Cultural Center, that includes job search assistance, job training, and other empowerment and educational programs; the STAIRS after-school program for refugee children; and the Casa Latina Program for women and girls to develop the Latino arts --- painting, sculpture, dance and music -- along with development, education, counseling and referrals. Also in 2008, St. Colman’s Parish School of Religion (PSR) merged with the PSR of La Sagrada Familia Parish with Grades 4 through 8 meeting on the first floor of the school.

St. Colman was on the church closure list in 2009 but was allowed to remain open.

1880 - 1901 – St. Colman Church – Gordon and Lawn, Msgr. Eugene Mary O’Callaghan

1901 - 1906 – St. Colman Church – Gordon and Lawn, Rev. James O’Leary

1908 - 1913 – St. Colman Church – W. 65th at Madison, Rev. James O’Leary

1918 - 1922 – St. Colman Church – 2027 W. 65th, Rev. James O’Leary

1922 - 1962 – St. Colman Church – 2027 W. 65th, Msgr. Charles Martin

1962 – 1966 – St. Colman Church – Rev. Martin Kelly

1966 – 1977 – St. Colman Church – Rev. Vincent Haas

1969 – 1972 – St. Colman Church – Rev. Martin Scully

1976 – 1991 – St. Colman Church – Rev. John Lavelle

1991 – St. Colman Church – Rev. Walt Jenne

1992 – 1994 – St. Colman Church – Rev. Anthony Dodd

1994 – 2001 – St. Colman Church – Sr. Lucy Dragonette and Sr. Carol English – Parish Administrators

2001 – 2007 – St. Colman Church – Sr. Ann Kilbane – Parish Life Coordinator

2007 – 2010 – St. Colman Church – Rev. Robert T. Begin

ST. COLUMBKILLE

2600 Superior – now a freeway ramp

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

St. Columbkille was founded in 1871 as a daughter parish of St. John the Evangelist Cathedral.  The first pastor was James O’Reilly.  A small wood-frame building was constructed at the northwest corner of E. 26th and Superior.  Fifteen years later, Father T.P. Thorpe, the pastor of St. John Cathedral, moved the original church to the northeast corner of the intersection.  This structure became the first St. Columbkille Church.  In 1904, a larger church was erected at the corner of E. 26th and Superior.  St. Columbkille School closed in 1953 and the parish closed in 1957.  In 1958, the entire St. Columbkille Parish campus was demolished to make way for the Innerbelt Freeway.

1871 - 1874 – St. Columbkille – Superior and Alabama, Rev. James O’Reilly

1877 – St. Columbkille – Superior and Alabama, Rev. Francis McGovern

1879 - 1891 – St. Columbkille – Superior and Alabama, Rev. T.P. Thorpe

1900 - 1906 – St. Columbkille – Superior and Alabama, Rev. George J. Vahey

1908 – St. Columbkille – Superior at E. 26th, Rev. George Vahey

1913 – St. Columbkille – Superior at E. 26th, Rev. John Sidley

1918 – St. Columbkille – Superior at E. 26th, Rev. Martin J. O’Malley

1919 - 1932 – St. Columbkille – Superior at E. 26th, Rev. G.J. Moseley

1932 – St. Columbkille – Superior at E. 26th, Rev. Arthur Gallagher

ST. CYRIL AND ST. METHODIUS (SLOVAK)

12608 Madison Avenue

A mission for Slovaks living and working in the “Birdtown” area of Lakewood was established in 1902.  It was called SS. Cyril and Methodius Church.  Services were initially conducted in a renovated house on the corner of Madison and Lakewood Avenues.  The following year, 1903, St. Wendelin Church on W. 25th Street at Columbus Road was established for Slovaks in Ohio City and the area south of Lorain Road.

1908 – St. Cyril and St. Methods – Madison at Lakewood, Rev. Thomas Ballon

1913 - 1918 – St. Cyril and St. Methods – Madison at Lakewood, Rev. A.J. Masat

1924 – Sts. Cyril and Methodius – Madison near Alameda, Rev. Albert Masat

1928 – Sts. Cyril and Methodius – Madison at Alameda, Rev. Frank Dubosh

ST. EDWARD (IRISH)

6812 Woodland Avenue

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

In 1863, Father Anthony Abel became the first priest to celebrate Mass with Catholics living in the area of Woodland and East 72nd Street.  For the next 8 years, Masses were said with priests from St. John the Evangelist Cathedral, St. Mary Seminary, and the Franciscan Monastery of St. Joseph in the chapel of St. Joseph Orphan Asylum on Woodland.  St. Edward Church was dedicated in 1873.  By 1943, most of the Irish Catholic families had moved from the area and were replaced by African-American homes.  St. Edward Parish became the second African-American parish in the Cleveland Diocese.  In 1958, the parish’s high school was closed.  Falling membership caused the parish to merge with Holy Trinity Parish in 1975.  St. Edward Church was demolished in 1976.

1871 – St. Edward – Woodland at Geneva, Rev. Jacob Kuhn

1873 - 1899 – St. Edward – Woodland at Geneva, Rev. M. Scanlon

1899 - 1906 – St. Edward – Woodland at Geneva, Rev. William Kress

1908 - 1920 – St. Edward – Woodland at E. 69th, Rev. William Kress

1921 - 1925 – St. Edward – Woodland at E. 69th, Rev. Joseph F. Nolan

1925 - 1928 – St. Edward – Woodland at E. 69th, Rev. John R. Kenny

1928 – 1932 – Rev. J.E. Casey

1933 – 1936 – Rev. J.E. Casey

1936 – 1937 – Rev. William Moseley

1937 – Rev. James E. Maher

1953 - 1968 – Rev. Werner Verhoff

1968 - 1971 – Rev. Charles McKoy

1971 - 1975 – Rev. Raymond Schultheis

ST. ELIAS (SYRIAN)

1225 Webster

1913 - 1921 – St. Elias – 1225 Webster, Rev. Basil Marsha

1924 - 1928 – St. Elias – 1227 Webster, Rev. Malatios Mufleh

ST. ELIZABETH (HUNGARIAN)

9016 Buckeye

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

During the last two decades of the 19th century, Hungarian-Catholic immigrants settled in the Buckeye Road area.  They celebrated Mass at St. Ladislas Parish.  Father Charles Boehm arrived in Cleveland in 1892 and became the first pastor.  The first Mass was celebrated in the chapel of St. Joseph Orphan Asylum on Woodland Avenue.  They then purchased property on Buckeye Road and Bismarck Street (now E. 90th).  The new church was dedicated on February 19, 1922.

1892 - 1907 – St. Elizabeth– S. Woodland at Bismarck, Rev. Charles Boehm

1908 - 1922 – St. Elizabeth – Buckeye at E. 90th, Rev. Julius Szepessy

1922 - 1927 – St. Elizabeth - Buckeye at E. 90th, Rev. Charles Boehm

1927 – 1973 – St. Elizabeth – Buckeye at E. 90th, Rev. Emory Arpad Tanos

1973 - 1977 – St. Elizabeth – Buckeye at E. 90th, Rev. Julius Zahorsky

1977 – 1987 – St. Elizabeth – Buckeye at E. 90th, Rev. John Nyeste

1987 – ???? – St. Elizabeth – Buckeye at E. 90th, Rev. Andras Antal

ST. EMERIC (HUNGARIAN)

1860 West 22nd

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

St. Emeric overlooks Cleveland’s industrial Flats.  In November, 1904 the first Mass was celebrated as a parish.  On January 22, 1905, the church was dedicated.  In 1916 the church was gutted by fire.  Bishop Farrelly offered the parish the use of the soon-to-be-suppressed St. Mary of the Annunciation Church, which the parish soon purchased.  In 1925, the Van Sweringen brothers purchased the parish site and moved the parish to its current location. 

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1942

In 1904, twelve years after St. Elizabeth Parish was founded to care for the Hungarian Catholics on the East Side, St. Emeric Parish was organized for the countrymen on the West Side.  Rev. Stephen Soltesz was appointed first pastor in November, 1904.  That year, a property at the corner of Bridge Avenue and West 24th St., was purchased and the houses on it were remodeled for a church and school.  Father Soltesz was succeeded by Rev. Joseph Szabo in October, 1911, and a year later he was succeeded by Rev. Joseph Peter.  In February, 1916, the church was burned and the parish bought the Church of the Annunciation at W. 22nd Street and Moore Avenue.  Rev. John Ratz, who replaced Father Peter on May 16, 1916, served until June 1920.  In the interval the parish was guided by Rev. Joseph Toth, who was stricken ill the following September, and Rev. Joseph Hartel was appointed pastor on September 27, 1920.   Misfortune again visited the parish in July, 1921, when the frame school was burned.  Three years later the property was sold to the Van Sweringen Company, and in 1925 the present combination church and school at 1904 West 22nd Street was built and dedicated. 

ST. EMERIC PARISH, CLEVELAND – 1904 History from the St. Emeric website:

Overlooking Cleveland’s industrial Flats, St. Emeric Parish is one of the Cleveland Diocese’s small gems. The church houses the impressive Millennial Mural, which captures the essence of its community—a Hungarian-Catholic people of the United States of America.  In November 1904, Father Joseph Hirling and members of the near-West Side Hungarian immigrant community celebrated their first Mass as a parish. Less than one year later, on January 22, 1905, Bishop Ignatius F. Horstmann dedicated the parish’s first church.  During the ensuing decade, St. Emeric Parish grew and prospered. Tragedy struck, however, on February 13, 1916, when the church was gutted by fire. Bishop Farrelly immediately offered the community the use of the soon-to-be-suppressed St. Mary of the Annunciation Church, which the Hungarian community soon purchased.  In 1920, during the pastorate of Father Joseph Hartel, the community welcomed teachers from the Ursuline Sisters. Five years later, the Daughters of the Divine Redeemer replaced the Ursuline Sisters.  Oris and Mantis Van Sweringen, the builders of the Terminal Tower, purchased the parish site in 1925, and moved the community to its current site, erecting a church which incorporated the altars from the original St. Emeric Church and the bell from St. Mary of the Annunciation Church.  With the completion of the new campus, St. Emeric Parish became the center of Hungarian life on Cleveland’s West Side, sponsoring numerous dinners, dances, and other social events.  During the difficult years of the Second World War, 180 parishioners served in the armed services.   St. Emeric Parish underwent a renaissance in the mid-1950s, as thousands of Hungarians refugees fled Communist oppression in their homeland and settled in Cleveland.   In 1965, the parish welcomed a new pastor, Father Francis Kárpi. He served the St. Emeric Parish until 1983, when he was succeeded by Father Richard Orley. In 1988, Father Sándor Siklodi became pastor—an office he continues to hold.

This church was on the church closure list and was set to close before July 1, 2010.  THE FINAL MASS WAS ON JUNE 30, 2010. AN APPEAL WAS FILED AND GRANTED BY THE VATICAN.  ST. EMERIC REOPENED ON NOVEMBER 4, 2012, WITH REV. SANDOR SIKLODI BEING ASSIGNED THERE.

1904 - 1906 – St. Emeric – Hicks near Bridge, Rev. Stephen Soltesz

1908 – 1911 - St. Emeric – W. 24th near Bridge, Rev. Stephen Soltesz

1911 - 1912 – St. Emeric – W. 24th at Bridge, Rev. Joseph N. Szabo

1912 – 1916 – St. Emeric – W. 24th at Bridge, Rev. Joseph Peter

1916 – 1920 – St. Emeric – W. 24th at Bridge, Rev. John Ratz

1920 – 1920 – St. Emeric – W. 24th at Bridge, Rev. Joseph Toth

1920 - 1942 – St. Emeric – 1921 W. 22nd, Rev. Joseph Hartel

1943-1965 – St. Emeric – Rev. John M. Mundweil

1965 – 1983 – St. Emeric – 1921 W. 22nd, Rev. Ferenc Francis Karpi

1983 – 1988 – St. Emeric – 1921 W. 22nd, Rev. Richard Orley

1988 - 2013 – St. Emeric – 1921 W. 22nd, Rev. Sandor Siklodi

2013 – 2015 – St. Emeric – 1921 W. 22nd, Rev. Gary Yanus

2015 – St. Emeric – 1921 W. 22nd, Rev. Andras Antal

2015 – 2020 – St. Emeric – 1921 W. 22nd, Rev. Andras Mezei

2020 – 2023 – St. Emeric – 1921 W. 22nd, Rev. Richard Bona

ST. FRANCIS (GERMAN)

7119 Superior

From:  Jubilee Edition of Waechter und Anzeiger Newspaper 1902

The newest of the German Catholic congregations in Cleveland is St. Francis Church.  Its area of activity lies outwards in the district where East Madison Avenue crossed Superior Street.  The present minister is Father F. Metternich.  The branching off of St. Francis from St. Peter’s occurred because the distance of the faithful from the church had grown too great.  This took place on March 3, 1887.  As soon as the little congregation was organized by Father Francis Westerholt, a lot was obtained on Superior Street near Becker Avenue.  The new church was consecrated on September 11, 1887 and the school was begun with two sisters of the Sisters of Our Beloved Lady.  The first minister of the congregation was Nikolaus Kirch.  He remained until January 29, 1893 and was replaced by Rev. Francis Metternich.    THIS CHURCH WAS CLOSED AND THE FINAL MASS WAS HELD ON OCTOBER 4, 2009

1887 – St. Francis - Superior near Becker, Rev. Francis Westerholt

1887-1893 – St. Francis – Superior near Becker, Rev. Nicholas Kirch

1893 - 1906 – St. Francis – 2135 Superior, Rev. Francis Metternich

1908 - 1918 – St. Francis – Superior at E. 71st, Rev. Francis Metternich

1921 - 1928 – St. Francis – Superior at E. 71st, Rev. Joseph Hopp

ST. GEORGE (LITHUANIAN)

6527 Superior

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

The Lithuanian settlers celebrated mass at St. Joseph Parish on Woodland Avenue originally.  In 1895, Father Joseph Delininkaitis became the first pastor of St. George Parish.  They then celebrated mass at St. Peter Parish on Superior Avenue.  The parish purchased land at the corner of Oregon Street (now Rockwell Avenue) and East 21st Street, where it erected a small frame church/school.  Father Halaburda purchased property at the corner of E. 67th Street and Superior.  The present church was dedicated in 1921. 

Sunday marked the 'end of era' for two local churches - October 19, 2009 - CLEVELAND -- Emotions ran high at not one, but two local churches Sunday morning.  Parishioners at St. George at East 67th Street and Superior Avenue attended their final Mass. The 114-year-old church is part of the Cleveland Diocese's plan to downsize and restructure.  The majority of the St. George congregation will begin attending Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Neff Road. Parishioners there are also dealing with changes.  As the two churches will merge into one, the "new church" will be called St. Casimir.  The name upsets parishioners, who were hoping to rename the church Our Lady of Siluva.  Ironically, St. Casimir is the name of a Polish church in Cleveland that is also set to close.

1895 - 1898 – St. George – Dodge and Superior, Rev. Joseph Delinikaitis

1898 - 1905 – St. George – 38 N. Perry, Rev. Joseph Jankowski

1907 - 1919 – St. George – E. 21st at Oregon, Rev. Joseph Halaburda

1919 – St. George – E. 21st at Oregon, Rev. Vincent G. Vilkautalitis

1924 - 1959 – St. George – E. 65th at Superior, Rev. V.G. Vilkautalitis

1959 - 1961 – St. George – E. 65th at Superior, Rev. Bernard Bartis

1961 - 1980 – Rev. Balys Ivanauskas

1980 – present – Rev. Joseph Bacevice

ST. GREGORY (GREEK)

2037 Quail

1921 – St. Gregory - 2037 Quail, Rev. Joseph Hanulya

1924 – St. Gregory - 2037 Quail, Rev. Basil Volasin

1928 – St. Gregory - 2037 Quail, Rev. George Hritz

ST. HELENA (GREEK ROMANIAN)

1367 West 65th

1908 – St. Helena – W. 65th near Detroit, Rev. Epaninondas Lucaciu

1913 – St. Helena – W. 65th near Detroit, Rev. Amelin Haetigen

1924 - 1928 – St. Helena – 1367 W. 65th, Rev. John Spatariu

ST. HYACINTH (POLISH)

6114 Francis Avenue

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

Polish immigrants settled in the Francis Avenue – East 61st Street area.  They had to travel to St. Stanislaus Parish on Forman Avenue to celebrate Mass.  This led to many Jackowo neighborhood residents to ask to establish a new Polish nationality parish.  St. Hyacinth was established on December 20, 1906 with Rev. Ludwik Redmer as the first pastor.  The first mass was held at St. Edward Parish and then they moved to St. Lawrence parish.  The first Mass in their own church was on Christmas Day, 1907.  They built another later church, which was dedicated on May 22, 1952.  THE FINAL MASS WAS HELD ON SEPTEMBER 19, 2009.

St. Hyacinth Church closes its doors - September 19, 2009

Sunlight streams through a window and hits a crucifix after the doors of St. Hyacinth Church were closed for the final time after 103 years Saturday, September 19, 2009. Bishop Richard Lennon presided over the final mass and closing ceremony.  

1906 - 1920 – St. Hyacinth – Francis at E. 61st, Rev. Louis Redmer

1921 - 1957 – St. Hyacinth – Francis at E. 61st, Rev. Joseph Sztucki

1957 – 1973 – St. Hyacinth – Rev. Joseph Rutkowski

1973 – St. Hyacinth – Rev. John Deka

ST. IGNATIUS

10205 Lorain Avenue

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

On September, 1, 1902, Bishop Horstmann appointed Father Joseph Hoerstmann to form a parish at the “west end of Lorain Street”.  For the next year, while continuing as pastor of St. Mary, Rockport, and St. Patrick, West Park, Father Hoerstmann started visiting households.  At a meeting on March 15, 1903, it was announced that the Lorain Street and Denison Land Company had donated land on Lorain just past Denison.  This community celebrated Mass for the first time in this building on November 15, 1901.  The cornerstone for the church was laid in 1925 and the first Mass in the main church was Father Hanrahan’s funeral on April 14, 1930.  The church was dedicated on November 9, 1930.  The golden anniversary of the parish was celebrated in 1951.  The high point of the celebration came with the consecration of the church on October 22, 1951. 

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1942:

The need for a new parish in the west portion of Cleveland caused the establishment of St. Ignatius on September 2, 1902.  The first pastor was Rev. Joseph Hoerstman.  A $25,000 combination church and school was built that fall.  Construction of a new auditorium was begun in August 1913, and it was opened as the parish church in February, 1914.  Rev. Thomas A. Hanrahan assumed the pastorate upon Father Hoerstman’s resignation in January, 1918.  The cornerstone for the present church was laid on October 18, 1925 and first mass in the lower church was celebrated on August 14, 1927.  Work on the upper church was rushed to completion during 1930; while still unfinished it was used for the funeral services of Father Hanrahan.  He was succeeded in July 1930 by Rev. A.B. Stuber. 

1902 - 1906 – St. Ignatius – Lorain opposite Helen, Rev. Joseph Hoerstmann

1908 - 1918 – St. Ignatius – Lorain opposite W. 103rd, Rev. Joseph Hoerstmann

1918 - 1930 – St. Ignatius – West Blvd. at Lorain, Rev. Thomas Hanrahan

1930 – 1945 – St. Ignatius – West Blvd. at Lorain, Rev. Anthony Stuber

1945 – 1950 – St. Ignatius – West Blvd. at Lorain, Rev. John Kelly

1950 - ???? – St. Ignatius – West Blvd. at Lorain, Rev. Albert Murphy

1960’s – St. Ignatius – West Blvd. at Lorain, Rev. James McIntyre

???? – St. Ignatius – West Blvd. at Lorain, Rev. John Krasen

1982 - St. Ignatius - West Blvd. at Lorain, Rev. Robert Glepko

???? – St. Ignatius – West Blvd. at Lorain, Rev. James McGonegal

ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST (UNITED GREEK)

1898 – St. John the Baptist – 78 Rawlings, Rev. Simon Szabo

1902 – St. John the Baptist  – 78 Rawlings, Rev. Ryan Matysezko

1906 – St. John the Baptist  – 78 Rawlings, Rev. Julius Orosz

1908 – St. John the Baptist  – 8019 Rawlings, Rev. Julius Orosz

1913 – St. John the Baptist – Buckeye near Woodhill, Rev. Victor Kizak

1921 - 1928 – St. John the Baptist – Buckeye at Ambler, Rev. Eugene Tabakovich

ST. JOHN CANTIUS (POLISH)

906 College Avenue at Professor

This church was organized in 1898 by its first appointed pastor, the Rev. Hippolit Orlowski.  The first church was a remodeled car barn at the corner of Professor and College Streets, and the first Mass was celebrated in the remodeled building on March 26, 1899.  A part of a two-story building at the rear of the property was remodeled into a school, which opened its doors to the children on September 11, 1899, under the care of the Sisters of Saint Joseph.  A combination church and school was built in 1913 by Rev. Francis Doppke.  When the present church was constructed in 1925 under Rev. Joseph P. Kocinski, the church part of the school building was made into a spacious parish hall.  The church features the ornate altar saved from St. Joseph Franciscan Catholic Church.  The architects were Potter and Gable.  The Rev. Francis B. Duda constructed the present high school building and recreation center which was dedicated on the 50th Anniversary of the parish in 1949. 

Cleveland News 5/19/1909:

FINE NEW CHURCH FOR THE POLES OF THE SOUTH SIDE

Sunday will be a red-letter day for the Polish Catholics of Cleveland.  The occasion will be the laying of the cornerstone of the new combination church and school of the congregation of St. John Cantius of which Rev. Francis F. Doppke is the pastor.  The exercises will begin with a parade of all the societies connected with the parish.  The procession will form at the church, proceed by way of Professor Ave. to Jefferson Ave, thence to Starkweather, West 14th, to Buhrer, to Scranton, to the residence of Bishop Koudelka, and return by Scranton Road, to Clark Ave., West 14th to Kenilworth, College and Professor to the pastoral residence.  The dimensions are 78 x 118 feet.  It will be fireproof, with steel roof trusses, iron stairways and slate roof.  The exterior will be of pressed brick, with stone trimmings.  The interior will be in hardwood finish.  The school will be on the first floor, where there will be six classrooms, stairways and halls in ceramic mosaic.  The chapel and sacristy will be on the second floor.  The chapel will seat 1,200.  The building will cost $57,000. 

This congregation was organized May 1, 1898.  In 1890 a few Polish families settled in the southwest portion of the city.  They first attended Stanislaus church.  Later a Polish priest was occasionally called to St. Joseph's church to administer to their spiritual needs.  When they grew stronger in number, they obtained permission from Bishop Horstmann to establish a parish of their own at Professor and College Avenue.  Father Orlowski was sent as their pastor.  He was educated in the Seminary of Plock, Poland.  At first Father Orlowski held services in St. John's cathedral school chapel.  In May, 1898, property at Professor and College streets, with the old street car barns, was purchased for $4,000.  The number of parishioners grew and soon a larger church and school was needed. 

Plans were prepared by William C. Jansen, architect, and the contract was let.  Before the building was started additional property for the sum of $12,000 was bought and paid for.  The property now has 297 feet frontage on Professor Ave. and 396 feet on College Ave. 

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

Bishop Ignatius F. Horstmann established St. John Cantius Parish on April 14, 1898, appointing Father Hippolit Orlowski its first pastor.  On March 26, 1899, the community gathered in a converted car barn in Cleveland's Tremont neighborhood to celebrate its first mass.  Soon after, Father Orlowski wrote Bishop Horstmann of the enthusiasm of the Kantowo community, assuring him that "the honorable and hard-working Poles would support this church and fulfill the expectations inherent with the new undertaking."  In September, the community opened its school, welcoming teachers from the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis.  By the time Father Orlowski left the parish in September 1908, the community had grown to approximately 400 families and a school enrollment of 300 students.  Father Orlowski's successor, Father Francis Doppke, supervised the construction of a new church and school.  The burden of ministering to a growing parish taxed Father Doppke's strength, led him to petition the Diocese for an assistant - a request difficult to fill with the dearth of Polish-speaking Priests in the United States.  After eight years of dedicated service, Father Doppke died on March 18, 1917.  Bishop Farrelly appointed Father Joseph P. Kocinski the next pastor of St. John Cantius Parish.  By the mid 1920's, continued growth led the community to erect a new church.  The dedication took place in November 1926.  In May 1932, the Diocese reassigned Father Kocinski, replacing him with Monsignor Marion Orzechowski.  With Monsignor Orzechowski's death in May 1939, Archbishop Schrembs appointed Father Francis Duda on July 2, 1939.  In May 1945, the parish received word that Bishop Edward F. Hoban had approved plans for the establishment of St. John Cantius High School.  Father Duda was elevated to the rank of domestic prelate on May 25, 1947.  Monsignor Duda served the parish for a number of years before ill health forced him to turn over the community to an administrator, Father Edward F. Gackowski.  Father Gackowski served the parish until January 1956, when it welcomed its new pastor, Father Francis A. Szudarek.  In 1969, the parish high school merged with St. Stanislaus, St. Michael and Our Lady of Lourdes High Schools, creating the multi-campus Cleveland Central Catholic High School.  That September, the parish welcomed its new associate pastor, Father Ralph A. Bodziony, who in January 1973, succeeded Father Szudarek as pastor.  Over the next 10 years the Spanish-speaking population of the area grew, leading Father Bodziony to propose the establishment of a parish Hispanic ministry in 1984.  Two years later, the parish campus was damaged when an explosion ripped through the church and rectory.  Recent renovations include the conversion of the former convent into a half-way house for recovering alcoholics and the creation of a parish hunger center.

HISTORICAL SKETCH OF ST. JOHN CANTIUS CHURCH FROM THEIR GOLDEN JUBILEE BOOK IN 1949:

Over 50 years ago, a small number of Catholic Polish laborers settled on the South side of Cleveland.  The early settlers although few in number, eagerly desired the ministration of their Holy Faith.

As the spiritual needs of these families became known, the ordinary of the diocese, The Most Rev. Bishop Ignatius Horstmann, appointed the Reverend Hippolit Orlowski as the first pastor of St. John Cantius Church to serve the Polish Catholic families of the South Side.  The Holy Sacrifice of Mass was offered up for the first time in a remodeled car barn at the corner of Professor and College Avenues.  A part of the two-story building at the rear end of the property was remodeled into apartments serving as a pastoral residence, school, and Sister's home, so that within three months from the date of its establishment, the parish was functioning normally.  The Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis were appointed to teach, and they remain in charge of the school to this day.

The Parish of St. John Cantius grew rapidly to the extent that Father Hippolit Orlowski could not carry the burdens of his work due to ill health.  He asked to be relieved of his duties and in August, 1908 the Most Reverend Bishop appointed the Reverend Francis Doppke as his successor.  Under his administration a combination school and church were built in 1913.  He also arranged for the building of a Parish house, and a Sister's home.  His plans for a new church did not materialize because he too did not enjoy good health, and died at a comparatively young age on March 18, 1917.

Father Joseph P. Kocinski succeeded Father Francis Doppke on April 24, 1917.  He soon realized that the school was too small so he arranged for the building of six additional classrooms.  He also enlarged the Sisters’ home which was too small for all the Sisters needed to serve the parish.

Having completed the school program, Father Kocinski with his committee were now planning a new church.  So naturally the people of the parish were enthusiastic, to start building a new House of God.  In 1923, Father Kocinski solicited the services of Potter & Gable Co., Cleveland architects, well experienced in church structure.  This was the first step taken, having for its goal the present church.  On Sunday afternoon, July 6, 1924, the cornerstone of the new church was laid.  The church is of a beautiful Romanesque style, determined in every detail to be a fitting house of worship, a structure worthy of being dedicated as a Catholic church and also a fitting monument to the South Side of Cleveland, as well as the parishioners of St. John Cantius.

On Sunday, the twenty-fourth of November 1926, St. John Cantius parish witnessed the dedication of its new church.  The Pontifical Mass was celebrated by His Excellency, the Most Reverend Bishop Joseph Schrembs.  Many visiting clergy were present, and the Church was filled with parishioners.  At the conclusion, Bishop Schrembs addressed the Congregation and was followed by Father Kocinski, the pastor of St. John Cantius, who conveyed to the parish his sentiments of joy and appreciation on this great occasion.

Father Kocinski has given his best efforts to St. John Cantius.  He worked strenuously and conscientiously until May 17, 1932 when he was succeeded by the Rt. Rev. Msgr. Marion J. Orzechowski, who for seven years worked zealously for the welfare of the parish, both socially and spiritually.  He was loved, by all the people, both young and old.  His untimely death on May 1, 1939 put an end to a great benefactor.  The present pastor, the Rt. Rev. Msgr. Francis B. Duda succeeded Msgr. Orzechowski.

During the 10 years of his Pastorate at St. John Cantius, Monsignor Duda has been instrumental in furthering the progress of the parish.  In the first place, he achieved the remarkable feat of clearing the parish of its heavy indebtedness.

Perceiving the appalling need of a Catholic high school on the south side, Monsignor Duda formulated plans for remodeling the auditorium into suitable classrooms for the high school department.  Assured that this was a step in the right direction he conceived the idea of erecting a new unit comprising a high school and recreation center.  In 1947 Monsignor Duda requested the service of Mr. Ellsworth Potter, a Cleveland architect, who skillfully drew the plans for a high school and recreation center.  The plans were submitted to His Excellency, the Most Reverend Edward F. Hoban, who approved them.

On Sunday afternoon, July 10, 1949, the cornerstone of the new high school was laid.  The general contractors were Woods and Chleva.

With the completion of the new building, the fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth grades were transferred to the former high school quarters while the wooden frame building in which these lower grades were housed was removed from the premises.

Undaunted by the difficulties besetting his path, Monsignor Duda succeeded in this great enterprise for the need of providing a wholesome and religious environment for the training of youth both intellectually and socially is apparent to all who are aware of the modern atheistic tendencies.

On Sunday, the 16th day of April the Most Reverend Bishop Edward F. Hoban dedicated the new high school and recreation center in the presence of a large number of clergy and parishioners.  This indeed was a memorable day for it marked also the Golden Jubilee of the parish.

Monsignor Duda and his loyal parishioners deserve great credit and commendation for their zeal in the cause of Catholic education.  Indeed, this was a noble work for the greater glory of God and the welfare of the youth.

St. John Cantius Parish stands now as a complete unit - a memorial to the Priests, Sisters, and all the Parishioners who worked loyally for its accomplishment.

ST. JOHN CANTIUS 90TH ANNIVERSARY  1898-1988

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

The "Heights" area of Cleveland was a quiet rolling rural community ninety years ago, its quiet country lanes provided perfect sites for the school complexes that were planned.  The city would remain by the Cuyahoga River, the people believed.  The steel mill executives began building estates on the hillsides.

Many of Cleveland's steelworkers and other laborers were Polish immigrants who had settled on the South side of the city.  They brought a burning faith with them from the old country and felt a need for a priest who could serve them in their own tongue.

His Excellency, the Most Reverend Bishop Ignatius Horstmann readily agreed that, although their numbers were comparatively small, their dedication would surely support a parish of their own.  And so he appointed Reverend Hippolit Orlowski to serve the Polish nationality parish of St. John Cantius.

Masses were originally held in a two-story barn at the corner of Professor and College Avenues.  One of the first Sacraments bestowed was the baptism on May 7, 1898 of Stanislaus Sroka - the parish's first baptism.  The first marriage in our parish united Adelbert Bilski and Catherine Misiak on May 30.

The hard-working parishioners immediately began remodeling - creating a pastoral residence, a school, and a Sisters' home in separate apartments behind the sanctuary portion of the building.  These poor immigrants knew the importance of a good education.  They wanted Catholic schools for their children and were willing to sacrifice to attain the best.

Accordingly, when the church was established, so was the school The Sisters of St. Joseph of the Third Order of St. Francis were appointed to teach.  Their many years of service to St. John Cantius School is gratefully acknowledged by today's parishioners. 

A BUILDING PARISH

The parish's growth was rapid.  Father Orlowski's health was poor and the burden was growing greater and greater.  Eventually he asked to be relieved of his duties.  In August of 1908, Father Orlowski was replaced by Reverend Francis Doppke, another dedicated priest who gave his all for St. John Cantius.  He directed the building of a new church and school combination in 1913.  He then arranged for the construction of a parish hall and a convent.  Father Doppke's death came prematurely in March, 1917 - before he was able to begin the new church.

When Reverend Joseph P. Kocinski assumed the pastorate on April 24, 1917, the United States had just entered the World War.  Industry was expanding in Cleveland.  The population was growing.  More and more Polish-speaking Catholics were joining St. John Cantius School.  Almost immediately, Father Kocinski contracted for six classrooms to be added to the overcrowded school.  The Sisters' residence was expanded also. 

Then, the parish turned its thoughts to a new church building.  This time it was to be a huge beautiful edifice - a monument to their faith and a sanctuary that would serve an ever-expanding parish for many decades.  Architects Potter and Gable of Cleveland were chosen in 1923 to design the massive Romanesque church.  Its cornerstone was laid on Sunday afternoon, July 6, 1924.

When the structure was completed two years later, it had cost $245,000 excluding heat and electricity.  The church is 184 feet long and 67 feet wide.  At the point where it widens for side entrances it is 97 feet wide.  The bell tower is 135 feet high and its bells were added at a cost of $6,000.  These were fantastic expenditures for working people, many of whom were recent immigrants from a war-torn foreign country.  But if they didn't have their faith to sustain them, they would not have had the inspiration to push on.

A PARISH PRIORITY - EDUCATION

In May, 1932, a new pastor, the Right Reverend Monsignor Marion J. Orzechowski, was appointed.  He came to a parish that was suffering from the final phases of the Great Depression.  Unemployment was widespread; bank failures were still occurring.  Monsignor Orzechowski was a zealous worker who inspired his people.  Parish activities knit the congregation ever closer as well as slowly but steadily decreasing the mortgage loan.  Monsignor Orzechowski's sudden death on May 1, 1939, was a heart-rending loss to his faithful flock.

St. John's fifth pastor, Right Reverend Monsignor Francis D. Duda, proved to be as dynamic a leader as were his predecessors.  One of his first tasks was to clear the parish of indebtedness.  He then turned his attention to a parochial high school.  The area had begun to grow.  The Second World War was expanding industrial production; steel mills were creeping into the residential areas.  The influx of workers caused overcrowding in the community's schools.  One of the country's first housing projects was built in this area at the time and sis still in the eighties serving needy people.

Monsignor Duda planned the remodeling of the parish auditorium into high school classrooms which opened in 1945.  When his assessment of the demand proved true, he decided that a complete high school and recreation center would be a vital addition.  Monsignor added English Masses to the Polish in the post World War II period.

In 1947, Monsignor Duda employed architect Ellsworth Potter of Cleveland to draw the plans which were later approved.  Contractors Woods and Chleva were hired and the work began.

Cornerstone laying ceremonies were held on Sunday, July 10, 1949, and when the building was completed, the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth grades were transferred into what had been the high school quarters.  The old wooden frame building was moved from the parish property. 

CHANGES AND MORE CHANGES

After a long and vital pastorate, Monsignor Duda died on November 27, 1955.  He was succeeded in 1956 by Reverend Francis A. Szudarek, who had served St. John Cantius as an associate pastor from 1936 to 1948.  In the parish and in the community, changes were still the way of life during Father Szudarek's pastorate.  The city kept pushing out its boundaries.  Highways were being cut through here, there, and everywhere.  Homes had to be moved or torn down to allow the wheels of progress to keep turning.  Many parishioners had moved out into the suburbs, and although most parishioners now spoke Polish as a second language, they commuted to St. John's rather than change to another church.

The high school required additional laboratory facilities, a new cafeteria and gym locker rooms.  Then, in 1969, after 24 years of service, St. John Cantius High School was consolidated with three other schools to form Cleveland Central Catholic High School.  Its initial enrollment exceeded 2,000.

In preparation for the 75th Anniversary celebration, the main body of the church was re-decorated.

The grammar school was merged, in the Fall of 1972, with that of the neighboring parish - Our Lady of Mercy. 

The people of St. John Cantius held a Recognition Night Banquet on December 30, 1972, for a beloved priest who had faithfully served them for a total of 28 years - seventeen as pastor.  Father Szudarek was retiring to the position of Pastor Emeritus.  Rev. Ralph A. Bodziony's appointment as pastor would become effective as of January 2, 1973.  Then it was Father Bodziony's turn to be feted by his parish.  Over 500 celebrants joined him at a banquet in his honor on the day of his official installation - January 28.

A parish that is still comprised of in some instances by parishioners of four generation of Polish-Americans, St. John Cantius is as active and vital as ever. 

Because the Sisters of St. Joseph (Marymount) did not continue to staff the High School and did not reside at the Sisters' residence, the convent became inefficient to operate.  The residence of the sisters was changed to a newly renovated convent opposite the High School.  The former convent became the Matt Talbot Inn, a half-way house for recovering alcohol and substance abuse residents.

The merger of the Grade School with Our Lady of Mercy School lasted only a few years.  In 1977, the Grade School was moved to the High School building.  The former grade school building for a brief period of time housed a Spanish Day Center.

Changes which began in the neighborhood a couple of decades ago are now being addressed by a variety of neighborhood organizations.  The Tremont West Development Corp. is renovating homes in the area to preserve the residential area, and has implemented plans for new housing by building its first new home in the area.  Various area landmarks have been renovated into loft-type apartments.   In 1987 discussions began for the sale of the former Grade School building to a Tremont area developer for renovation into loft-type apartments.

PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE ARE NOW

From the handful of Catholics who once met in a car barn to the thriving parish celebrating Mass on weekdays and Saturdays, and three times on Sundays, in a beautiful spacious sanctuary of their own creation, it has been a long upward climb covering a period of 90 years.  As the City changes and a building boom is revitalizing downtown Cleveland, also changes are beginning to take place in the neighborhood.  Art related enterprises have begun to move into the area along with other businesses.  The area has also become more attractive to some by its designation as a Historic Area due to its unique Architecture and Civil War connections.

Hopefully, the neglect and deterioration of former years is being replaced by a new spring for the former Lincoln Heights area.  The outside world has changed beyond our founders' recognition; we must express appreciation and gratitude to them for their deep faith and foresight to the future from these humble beginnings.  With an overwhelming debt of gratitude, we reflect on the accomplishments of our forefathers; with thankful pride, we point to the dedicated parishioners of today, with a renewed sense of commitment, we face a glorious future for the Parish of St. John Cantius.

1898 - 1908 – St. John Cantius – Professor at College, Rev. Hippolit Orlowski

1908 - 1917 – St. John Cantius – Professor at College, Rev. Francis Doppke

1917 - 1932 – St. John Cantius – Professor at College, Rev. Joseph P. Kocinski

1932 - 1939 - St. John Cantius - Rev. Marion Orzechowski

1939 - St. John Cantius - Rev. Francis Duda

???? - 1956 - St. John Cantius - Rev. Edward Gackowski

1956 - 1969 - St. John Cantius - Rev. Francis Szudarek

1969 - 1984 - St. John Cantius - Rev. Ralph Bodziony

ST. JOHN NEPOMUCENE (CZECH)

3785 Independence Road

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

At the turn of the century, the Slavic Village area attracted Bohemian immigrants.  They formed the St. Joseph Society and purchased property at the corner of Fleet and Raus Avenues.  Father Francis Hroch was the first pastor.  Ground was broken for a church on October 16, 1902 and the first mass was celebrated on February 7, 1903.  The current church was dedicated in 1920.

1902 - 1906 – St. John Nepomucene – Raus at Fleet, Rev. Francis J. Hroch

1908 - 1937 – St. John Nepomucene – E. 50th at Fleet, Rev. Francis J. Hroch

1937 – 1941 – St. John Nepomucene – E. 50th at Fleet, Rev. Albert Masat

1941 – 1962 – St. John Nepomucene – E. 50th at Fleet, Rev. Clarence Dik

1962 – 1964 – St. John Nepomucene – E. 50th at Fleet, Rev. Clarence Liederbach

1964 – 1975 – St. John Nepomucene – E. 50th at Fleet, Rev. Paul Plafcan

1975 - St. John Nepomucene – E. 50th at Fleet, Rev. William F. Tezie

ST. JOHN’S (SLOVAK)

1921 – St. John’s – W. 11th near Kenilworth, Rev. J.Z. Jasinski

ST. JOHN’S (GREEK)

1924 - 1928 – St. John’s – E. 22nd at Scovill, Rev. Stephen Gulyassy

ST. JOSAPHAT (POLISH)

1411 East 33rd

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

Father Albert Migdalski was appointed to serve the growing number of Polish-Catholics in the St. Clair – Superior area.  This parish was originally called St. Hedwig, but because of another parish of the same name in Lakewood, the name was changed to St. Josaphat.  The congregation purchased three lots in 1911 for a pastoral residence and school.  Construction was begun in 1915 on St. Josaphat Church.  The project was stalled due to arguments over funding and the Influenza Epidemic of 1918.

1908 – St. Josephat – Rev. Albert Migdalski

1913 - 1918 – St. Josephat – 1411 E. 33rd, Rev. Jos. Kocinski

1918 - 1924 – St. Josephat – 1411 E. 33rd, Rev. J. Spanowski

1928 - 1931 – St. Josaphat - 1431 E. 33rd, Rev. Joseph Spanowski

1931 - 1937 – Rev. Stanislaus Rybacki

1937 – 1948 – Rev. Joseph Kocinski

1948 - ???? – Rev. Joseph Napierkowski

???? – Rev. Stanislaus Ciolek

???? – Rev. Thaddeus Michalski

1987 - 1995 – Rev. James Gettig

1995 – Rev. David Novak

ST. JOSEPH

2543 East 23rd

From:  Jubilee Edition of Waechter und Anzeiger Newspaper 1902

The first beginnings of St. Joseph’s, located on Woodland Avenue and Chapel Street, dates back to 1855.  In that year, some distance from the church, a Catholic school was opened called St. Bernard’s School on the east side of Irving Street.  In 1857 the school was moved to Orange and Irving Street.  Here Pastor Luhr bought a lot.  A frame building was located there for school purposes, then it was later used as a church.  This church was called St. Bernard’s Church and was a mission of St. Peter’s.  In summer, 1862, St. Bernard’s Mission was elevated from an autonomous congregation, and the Most Reverend Ant. Krasny took office in August 1862 as the first parish priest.  An effort was made to obtain another property and it was found at Kinsman (now Woodland Avenue) and Chapel Street.  It was purchased in September, 1862.  Construction was begun.  The cornerstone was laid in 1862 and St. Joseph was taken as patron of the new church, so the church is known as St. Joseph’s.  Pastor Krasny had become pastor of the Bohemian St. Stanislas and in the meantime, Reverend H.D. Best took over.  The church became too small, and eight lots were purchased on Chapel Street between Hazen and Creighton Streets.  These were purchased for the monastery or for the church.  At the same time as construction was begun on the new church, the minister Pater Capistran was recalled, and on August 31, 871 Father Kilian Schlosser was named pastor of St. Joseph’s.  The church was consecrated on October 5, 1873.  On Father Kilian’s initiative, St. Alexis Hospital was established in 1884.  On July 15, 1885 Father Kilian was transferred to Chicago.  Father Alardus Andrescheck, was not pastor.  He was succeeded on July 25, 1888 by Father Theodorus Arentz.  Father Arentz remained until summer, 1897 and was replaced by Father Benignus Schuetz.  He was pastor for three years.  Since September, 1900, Father Bernard Wewer has been pastor.

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

By the early 1980’s, the diocese was providing an annual financial subsidy to St. Joseph.  Major repairs were needed to the church as well.  With declining numbers, the Franciscans could no longer provide a full-time pastor.  The Parish Council, Franciscan community and the Diocese agreed on closing the parish.  A final Mass was said on September 17, 1986.  Church furnishings, statuary, and stained-glass windows were removed.  On February 15, 1993, the church was gutted by fire.

1862 - 1868 – St. Joseph – Kinsman and Chapel, Rev. H.D. Best

1868 - 1871 – St. Joseph, corner Chapel and Hazen, Rev. Capistran Zwinge

1871 – 1885 – St. Joseph, Chapel and Hazen, Rev. Killian Schlosser

1885 - 1888 – St. Joseph, Woodland and Chapel, Rev. Alardus Andrescheck

1888 - 1897 – St. Joseph – Woodland at Chapel, Rev. Theodore Arentz

1897 – 1900 – St. Joseph – Woodland at Chapel, Rev. Benignus Schutz

1900 - 1906 – St. Joseph - Woodland at Chapel, Rev. Bernard Wewer

1908 – St. Joseph – Woodland at E. 23rd, Rev. Francis Haase

1913 - 1924 – St. Joseph – Woodland at E. 23rd, Rev. Polycarp Rhode

1928 – St. Joseph – Woodland at E. 23rd, Rev. Flavius Kraus

ST. JOSEPH

1908 – St. Joseph’s – Manchester at Collins, Rev. John W. Bell

1913 - 1921 – St. Joseph’s – Saranac at Aspinwall, Rev. John W. Bell

1924 - 1928 – St. Joseph’s – E. 144th at St. Clair, Rev. John Bell

ST. JOSEPH (GREEK)

1924 – St. Joseph – 9400 Orleans, Rev. Victor Mirossay

1928 – St. Joseph – 9417 Orleans, Rev. Thomas Sabow

ST. LADISLAUS (SLOVAK)

2345 Bassett Road

From: “Parishes of the catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1942

The first Slovak Church of the Cleveland Diocese was that of St. Ladislas, established in September 1885.  Its people had been attending St. Joseph’s German Church, to which the Rev. Stephen Furdek, pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, went weekly to preach a Slovak sermon.  Father Furdek assisted in organizing the new parish and in 1899 purchased two lots on old Corwin Avenue (E. 92nd), building there a little frame church in which a one-room school was opened.  The Rev. John Martvon was first pastor.  At first, an increasing Hungarian population aided in attendance and support, but in 1891 this group left to build St. Elizabeth’s Parish.  When Father Martvon returned to Europe in 1892, Rev. V. Panuska became pastor and he was succeeded by Rev. J. Jiranek.  In 1901, Rev. J. Tichy took over the pastoral duties.  During the incumbency of Rev. John Svozil, St. Ladislas Parish made great strides.  The dedication of the present church, on October 7, 1906, was made memorable by a confirmation class of 300 children.  When Father Svozil resigned because of ill health, the present pastor, Rev. L. Necid, succeeded him in 1907. 

From: “People of Faith” by Charles R. Kaczynski

The first Slovak Church in Cleveland was a Catholic one – St. Ladislaus Church.  It was founded in 1885 at Corwin (now E. 92nd Street) and Holton Avenues in the Buckeye area.  It remained until 1971.  There had been talk of closing it when a fire destroyed the church in 1970.  The remaining buildings were sold to another denomination, and a new St. Ladislaus was built in Westlake. 

1885 - 1892 – St. Ladislaus – Corwin at Holton, Rev. John Martvon

1892 - 1894 – St. Ladislaus – Corwin at Holton, Rev. W.A. Panuska

1898 - 1902 – St. Ladislaus – Corwin at Holton, Rev. Peter Cerveny

1901 – 1904 – St. Ladislaus – Corwin at Holton, Rev. J. Tichy

1904 - 1907 – St. Ladislaus – Corwin at Holton, Rev. John Svozil

1907 - 1942 – St. Ladislaus – E. 92nd near Holton, Rev. Ladislav Necid

ST. LAWRENCE (SLOVENIAN)

2532 East 81st

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

Slovenian immigrants arrived in Cleveland during the 1880’s.  They settled in the Newburgh neighborhood bounded by E. 80th, 81st, 82nd, Marble and Burke Streets.  They first attended Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes and then later at St. Vitus.  They founded St. Lawrence Catholic Church in 1901 and Father Francis Kerze was the founding pastor.

The first mass was held on December 11, 1901.  The cornerstone for the church was laid on May 11, 1902.   Work was begun on a permanent church in 1923.  Finances only allowed them to built the basement and this served as the church until 1940 when the present church was constructed.  Today this church is located at 3547 E. 80th Street.

This church is on the church closure list and set to close before July 1, 2010.

THE FINAL MASS WAS ON JUNE 20, 2010.

1901 - 1906 – St. Lawrence, Rural near Union, Rev. Francis Kerze

1907 - 1908 – St. Lawrence, E. 81st near Union, Rev. Francis Kerze

1909 - 1915 – St. Lawrence, E. 81st near Union, Rev. Joseph Lavric

1915 - 1962 – St. Lawrence, 3510 E. 81st, Rev. John Oman

1962 – 1968 – St. Lawrence, 3510 E. 81st, Rev. Francis Baraga

1968 – 1979 – St. Lawrence, 3510 E. 81st, Rev. Joseph Varga

1979 – 1997 – St. Lawrence, 3510 E. 81st, Rev. Anthony Rebol

ST. MALACHI (IRISH)

2459 Washington Avenue

From: “People of Faith” by Charles R. Kaczynski

St. Malachi is located at 2459 Washington Avenue just north of W. 25th Street at the west end of the old Superior Viaduct and was established in 1865.  Because of its location near Lake Erie, it was considered to be the “port” church, and the cross on its steeple was illuminated to guide ships into the harbor.  It was founded to serve the Irish immigrants of the “Old Angle”.  The first Mass was celebrated on November 13, 1865 at St. Mary’s of the Flats.  The cornerstone for the church was laid in 1867 and the first Mass there was on Christmas, 1868.  On December 22, 1943, the newly-renovated church burned down.  The people of Saint Malachi were determined to rebuild.  The new cornerstone was dedicated on June 29, 1947. 

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1942

In November, 1865, St. Malachi’s Parish was established, and Rev. J.P. Maloney was the first pastor.  He served the parish for 38 years.  A site for the church was purchased in 1866, but for about 4 years, while the building was under construction, services were held in old St. Mary’s on the Flats.  The new church was dedicated March 5, 1871.  The structure originally had a tall spire rising from its tower.  This was topped by an illuminated cross which for many years made it the first and last object visible to sailors on the lake.  The spire was blown down in 1876 and never rebuilt.  In 1867 the first school was built.  A former public-school building on Pearl Street (West 25th) was purchased in 1871 for a boys’ school.  The present school building was erected in 1885.  When Father Maloney died in 1903, Rev. John McHale was appointed.  The present pastor, Rev. George F. Martin was appointed in 1941.  The original church was destroyed by fire on Christmas Eve, 1943.

The Western Reserve Historical Society has marriage records from 1865-1899 for this church.  Call Number F34ZRN S245R

1865 - 1903 – St. Malachi – Washington and Pearl, Rev. James P. Maloney

1903 - 1906 – St. Malachi – Washington and Pearl, Rev. John McHale

1908 - 1913 – St. Malachi – Washington near W. 25th, Rev. John McHale

1918 - 1928 – St. Malachi – Washington near W. 25th, Rev. J. McInerney

1941 – St. Malachi – Washington near W. 25th, Rev. George F. Martin

ST. MARGARET (HUNGARIAN)

2919 East 116th

1924 – St. Margaret – 2919 E. 116th, Rev. Ernest Rickert

1928 – St. Margaret – 2919 E. 116th, Rev. Andrew Koller

ST. MARIAN (ITALIAN)

2200 Woodhill

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

Until 1905, all the Italian speaking people who lived east of E. 55th Street looked to Holy Rosary Church on Mayfield Road as their Church.  In 1905 a group living in the neighborhood of Cedar Avenue and Fairmount Road acquired property at 2200 Woodhill Road to build a church dedicated to SS. Marian and James.  By 1953 the parish had only one hundred families.  Father Francis Valentini was assigned as administrator in 1967.  He found an empty convent, an empty school and little parochial life remaining.  The decision was made to close the parish in the Spring of 1975, and the final mass was on September 20, 1975.

1908 - 1920 – St. Marian – Woodhill at Fairmount, Rev. Angelieus Idone

1921 – St. Mariano – Woodhill at Fairmount, Rev. James Matturo

1922 - 1928 – St. Marian – 2200 Woodhill, Rev. Joseph Trivisonno

1943 – Rev. Francis Cacciacarro

ST. MARON (SYRIAN)

2210 East 21st

1924 – St. Maron’s – 2210 E. 21st, Rev. Louis Zouain

1928 – St. Maron’s – 2210 E. 21st, Rev. Joseph Komald

ST. MARTIN (SLOVAK)

East 23rd and Scovill

From: “People of Faith” by Charles R. Kaczynski

The second parish for the Slovak Catholics – St. Martin, was established in 1893 on E. 25th Street near Woodland.  Services were initially held in a church building purchased from an Evangelical Lutheran congregation, but then it was sold and a bigger, grander St. Martin’s was constructed nearby.  Unfortunately, however, what was once considered the most beautiful Slovak church in the United States was demolished circa late 1960.  The State of Ohio bought the entire St. Martin property when it was erecting the freeway.

St. Martin spawned three newer parishes:  St. Andrew, SS. Cyril & Methodius and Our Lady of Mercy

1893 - 1896 – St. Martin – 35 Henry, Rev. Wenceslas Panuska

1896 - 1899 – St. Martin – 35 Henry, Rev. Aloysius Kollar

1899 - 1906 – St. Martin – Chapel near Scovill, Rev. Wenceslaus Horak

1907 - 1946 – St. Martin – E. 23rd near Scovill, Rev. Wenceslas Horak

1947 – 1956 – St. Martin – E. 23rd near Scovill, Rev. Michael Hnat

ST. MARY (BOHEMIAN)

This location on Columbus and Girard was a temporary quarters for this ethnic church.  They were using the church previously occupied by St. Mary on the Flats.

1869 - 1870 – St. Mary (BOHEMIAN) – Columbus and Girard, Rev. Gontyn

1871 – St. Mary Church (FRENCH) – Columbus and Girard, Rev. A. Sauvadet

1874 – St. Mary (BOHEMIAN) – Columbus and Girard, Rev. Anthony Hynek

1877 – St. Mary Church (POLISH) – Columbus and Girard, Rev. Victor Zirechney

1879 – St. Mary Church (POLISH) – Columbus and Girard, Rev. F. Marshall

ST. MARY BYZANTINE CATHOLIC

4600 State Road

The original St. Mary – also in its name was “the Dormition of the Mother of God” – was a rented wooden shop on the corner of W. 35th St. (what State Road was then called) and Stickney Ave.  St. Mary’s parishioners purchased it and three additional lots, and then built a rectory.  A recreation hall and an auditorium adjoining the wooden church were constructed next.  The current St. Mary’s church building was dedicated in 1950, and six years later, the former church and rectory were converted into a school and a convent.  A larger school was dedicated in 1960.  In 1981, St. Mary’s purchased the former Producers Dairy property and renovated part of it into the “Crystal Chalet”, a social hall which they began renting out the following year.   St. Mary’s opened a “Hospitality House” in another of the Producers buildings in 1989.  Parish volunteers served meals to the less fortunate in the Old Brooklyn area there.  The children and grandchildren of the founders of Holy Ghost and St. Mary’s continued to move away from the city, and in 1967 another parish, Holy Spirit Byzantine Catholic Church was established.  Located in front of the aforementioned Holy Ghost cemetery on W. 54th St. in Parma, the church building was dedicated in 1968.  The new parish became the custodian of the cemetery the following year.

ST. MARY ON THE FLATS – AKA OUR LADY OF THE LAKE

Near 1832 Columbus Avenue

It was 1825, at the time when the construction of the Ohio Canal was begun, and the city numbered about 500, when the first Catholics, a number of Irish workers seeking employment with the canal, arrived here.  The next year the first priest arrived in Cleveland, Thomas Martin.  The foundation for the first Catholic Church in our city was laid by Father John Dillon who was sent here in 1835.  He felt victim to a bilious fever which killed him on October 16, 1836 at the age of only 29.  In September 1837, the priest Patrick O’Dwyer was sent to Cleveland.  A few days after Father O’Dwyer’s arrival, on October 24, 1837, Messrs. James S. Clarke, Richard Hilliard and Edmund Clark transferred through a land contract the building lots 218 and 219 in “Cleveland Centre” to the bishop of Cincinnati as trustee for the “Roman Catholic Society of Our Beloved Lady of the Lake” of Cleveland, with the condition that the society build an adequate frame structure for public divine services and afterwards regularly holds services there.  It was further stipulated that this property would remain the property of the said society as long as it was used for this purpose, or as long as this society owned property within “Cleveland Centre” and operated a church and held regular services in it.

Father O’Dwyer went to work right away to increase the building fund established by his predecessor and to undertake the construction of the church.  A few months later the rough construction was complete but the building could not be completed due to lack of funds.  In the meantime, disputes had arisen within the congregation which were partly due to nationalism.  Father O’Dwyer was removed for that reason.  The church stood unfinished for months until Bishop Purcell came to Cleveland in September, 1839.  He managed to get the church to the point where a mass could be read there for the first time in October of 1839.  The consecration took place on June 7, 1840.  This church was named “The Church of Our Beloved Lady of the Lake”.

This church served all Catholics of the city of Cleveland until 1852.  In October, 1840, the priest Peter McLaughlin was named minister at St. Mary’s.  Since he understood German to some extent, he could meet the needs of his “mixed congregation”, which consisted largely of German immigrants.  With the intention of moving the church to the higher and better parts of the city, Father McLaughlin bought four lots from Thom. May at the corner of Superior and Erie Street, where the cathedral now stands.  Critics accused Father McLaughlin of buying land “out in the country”.  Erie Street was then the eastern limit of settled city.  Tired of harassment, Father McLaughlin asked his bishop to relieve him of his position in St. Mary’s.  His request was honored and he took his leave in February, 1846.  His successor was Father Mauritius Howard.  In January, 1848, the priest Louis deGoesbriand was named Father Howard’s successor.  From October 1847, to November 6, 1852, St. Mary’s in the Flats, the sole Catholic church in Cleveland, was the first cathedral of the diocese.  On the latter date the present cathedral at the corner of Superior and Erie was dedicated.  St. Mary’s was left to the German Catholics, who were served by Father N. Roupp until the arrival of Johann H. Luhr in February, 1853.  Father Luhr was the first residential parish priest of the Germans in Cleveland.  After the formation of St. Peter’s and Assumption of Mary churches, Monsignor Boff celebrated high mass on Three Kings, 1886, at the direction of the bishop in the decaying church, which had been used since 1879.  This was done to prevent repossession of the church by the descendents of the donors as a result of the contractual conditions which they had already raised.  Collections were taken to set the church in good order, but they did not amount to much.  The heirs of the donors turned to the courts.  There was a compromise in which the lot was to be sold and the proceeds split between the diocese and the heirs.  This church was torn down in September of 1888.

Spawning from St. Mary’s Church in the Flats were St. Peters and Assumption of Mary (aka St. Mary’s of the Assumption which eventually was at Jersey & Carroll Streets.)

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA, 1942

St. Mary’s on the Flats, whose frame building stood for almost half a century at Girard and Columbus Streets, no longer exists, but its record and traditions, and the many Catholic congregations that were cradled there and left to build larger and more beautiful church structures, will keep the spirit of Cleveland’s first Catholic Church alive as long as Catholicism exists in northern Ohio.  The church was named “Our Lady of the Lakes” by those who established it, but it was popularly known as “St. Mary’s on the Flats” and the original title was almost forgotten even by its congregation.

Cleveland was a settlement primarily of New Englanders and there were no Catholics here until work on the canal brought a large number of Irish in 1825.  When the Most Reverend Edward Fenwick heard that many Catholics in Cleveland and along the canal to Akron, were without the ministrations of a priest, he directed the Dominican Fathers in Perry County, Ohio to remedy this condition, and they sent the Rev. Thomas Martin to this city in the fall of 1826.  He and Rev. Stephen Badin visited this community at intervals for a number of years, saying Mass in private homes or in the Masonic Hall, the only auditorium large enough to accommodate the faithful.  In 1835 Rev. John Dillon became the first resident pastor.  Services were held in Shakespeare Hall, then in a cottage on Erie (East 9th) Street and later in Mechanic’s Hall, while Father Dillon worked to accumulate a building fund.  As most of the Catholics were of the laboring class and poor, he appealed to his friends among the Protestants here and in New York, finally accumulating a fund of $1,000.  In October, 1836, he died at the age of 29 and was buried in Erie Street Cemetery.

In September 1837, Rev. Patrick O’Dwyer succeeded to the pastorate and a month later, Messrs. James S. Clark, Richard Hilliard and Edmund Clark conveyed, by land contract, two lots at Columbus and Girard Streets, on condition that “The Roman Catholic Society of Our Lady of the Lakes”, should build a church, the exterior to be finished in four months, and that the society should hold title to the property as long as the land was used for church purposes.  Work was immediately started, but additional money came so slowly that it was not until October 1839 that mass was said there for the first time. 

Rev. Peter McLaughlin succeeded Father O’Dwyer in October, 1840 and the church building was completed.  He was far-sighted and could visualize the approaching need for a Catholic church in the city proper, away from the Flats.  In January 1845, he purchased for $4,000, by land contract, four lots on Superior and Erie Streets where the present Cathedral stands.  He then left the parish in February 1846.

During the pastorate of Rev. Maurice Howard, the Diocese of Cleveland was erected and on October 10, 1847, Rev. Amadeus Rappe was consecrated as its Bishop.  From that time until the present Cathedral was dedicated on November 7, 1852, St. Mary’s on the Flats was the Diocesan Cathedral.  After the dedication of the new Cathedral, the little church on the Flats was given to the German Catholics where sermons were delivered in German.  Soon this Congregation divided.  Those living on the east side of the city purchased lots on Superior and Dodge Streets and built St. Peter’s.  The west side Germans continued to worship on the Flats until the church of St. Mary’s of the Assumption on Jersey (W. 30th) Street was dedicated in 1865.

From then until 1879, the little frame church, now rapidly being encircled by factories that made the “Flats” their habitat, became the first church home of a number of congregations that later built edifices whose magnificence dwarfed the mother church structure into insignificance.  On January 6, 1888, Rev. Richard Gilmour directed Rev. Boff to bring to an end the history of St. Mary’s on the Flats by celebrating the last High Mass there.  The end of its existence as a sacred place of worship came on a cold day, with snow blowing through the crevices in the roof and the broken windows to chill the large audience of former parishioners who had gathered in the still loved ruin for the last rites.  This was the first time that a Catholic Church in Cleveland was closed and the property abandoned.  The last of the old building was razed in 1888, and as the heirs of the grantors of the land sued for a reversal of the title because the site was no longer used for a church, the property was sold by court order and the proceeds divided equally between the Diocese and the heirs who had brought suit.  While the original building is gone, an exact replica of it in architecture, size and material has been built as a chapel for the Incarnate Word Academy, 6618 Pearl Road, Parma Heights, Cleveland.

1835 - 1836 - St. Mary's on the Flats - Rev. John Dillon

1837 - 1840 - St. Mary's on the Flats - Rev. Patrick O'Dwyer

1840 - 1846 - St. Mary's on the Flats - Rev. Peter McLaughlin

1846 - 1848 - St. Mary's on the Flats - Rev. Maurice Howard

1847 - 1852 - St. Mary's on the Flats - Rev. Louis deGoesbriand

1852-1863 – It was called St. Mary of the Assumption and used by that German parish in the St. Mary of the Flats building from 1852-1863, when that congregation moved to Jersey & Carroll Streets.

1863-1879 – St. Mary on the Flats building used by the following:

1. Catholic French

2. From 1865-1868 by those who eventually formed St. Malachi.

3. From 1868-1879 – Bohemians

4. Until 1876 – Poles

5. No one at all after 1876

6. The original St. Mary’s on the Flats building was torn down in 1884.

ST. MARY ON THE FLATS RENAMED ST. MARY OF THE ASSUMPTION

1950 West 30th at Carroll

From:  Jubilee Edition of Waechter und Anzeiger Newspaper 1902

Germans living west of the river became a congregation of their own in November, 1854, with the name of “Assumption of Mary” using the church in the Flats until the completion of their own church at the corner of Carroll and Jersey Streets in 1865.  This is the oldest German Catholic church on the West Side.  It was organized in 1854. The first minister was Rev. J.J. Kraemer.  In 1857 Rev. F.X. Obermueller became Kraemer’s successor and served the congregation until 1861.  Under Rev. Stephan Falk, who was pastor from 1862 to 1880, the congregation built a church of their own.  At the corner of Jersey and Carroll Street they obtained a lot and in September, 1863, construction began.  It was consecrated on September 13, 1865.  Father Michael Zollner was the next parish priest.  Father Ignatius Korling was chaplain and in 1881 a second assistant was given in the person of Heinrich Wochner.  In 1884 Father Wilhelm Pakisch was another assistant.  After Father Zollner left, Father Neusich was made his successor.  He held office until 1894.  The present minister is Victor Scheppach who entered office on June 15, 1894.

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

Cleveland’s catholic community grew rapidly after the Diocese was founded in 1847.  After the Cathedral was built in 1848, Bishop Amadeus Rappe gave St. Mary-on-the-Flats for use by German Catholics.  In 1853, St. Peter Church began serving the east side German community.  In November 1854, Bishop Rappe created St. Mary’s of the Assumption to serve the Germans of Ohio City, with Father John K. Kramer as pastor.  He started a school with four lay teachers.  In September 1857 Father Francis Obermueller became pastor; in 1858 he recruited the Brothers of Mary to teach the boys and the Ursulines to teach the girls.  He purchased land at Jersey Street (W. 30) and Carroll Ave., but was unable to begin building.  In 1861, a parish cemetery was established on land purchased along Clark Ave. between W. 38 and W. 41.  In March 1862, Father Stephen Falk became pastor.  Father Falk designed a Gothic-style church himself and in the evenings after work, parishioners labored on the building.  After two years’ effort, the church was completed and dedicated by Bishop Rappe on August 13, 1865.  The school was enlarged and grades added.  As Germans settled further west, Father Falk was called to organize St. Stephen parish in 1869, until newly-ordained Father Casimir Reichlin was assigned.  In 1880, when Bishop Richard Gilmour had the opportunity to welcome Jesuits into the Diocese to found a college and take over a parish, Father Falk voluntarily resigned St. Mary’s.  On July 31, the feast of St. Ignatius Loyola, Father Michael Zoeller S.J. became pastor of St. Mary.  The Jesuits greatly enriched the spiritual life of the parish, starting sodalities for the men, married women, young men and young women of the parish.  Fire destroyed the organ, pews, floor, and interior wall decorations in November 1893.  For eight months, Mass was celebrated in the school hall.  In July, 1894, Father Victorin Scheppach S.J. became pastor.  The two wood-frame school buildings were deteriorated and wholly inadequate.  The fire delayed the school campaign, but in June, 1895, work began on a modern brick school, which was completed by February, 1896.  Shortly after the 1904 Golden Jubilee, Father Anthony Hartmann S.J., expanded the school program, adding two years after eighth grade (termed junior high school), the boys continuing to be taught by the Brothers of Mary and the girls by the Ursulines.  German immigration had peaked by the turn of the century.  Immigrants from other nations had moved into the Near West Side, leading to St. Wendelin Parish in 1903 and St. Emeric Parish in 1904.  By 1929, St. Mary was losing population.  In 1944, St. Ignatius High School took over unused rooms in St. Mary’s School.  In 1945 St. Mary students were transferred to St. Patrick School.  Bishop Hoban conceived a process of assimilating St. Mary’s into St. Patrick.  On October 18, 1945, Father Francis Callan was appointed pastor of both St. Patrick and St. Mary.  The last public services at St. Mary Church were on February 11, 1959.  In May 1959, the deed to St. Mary’s was transferred to St. Ignatius High School.  The church was demolished in 1968 to erect a science center.

The Western Reserve Historical Society has church records for this church from 1863-1918.  Call Number MS4058

1853 - 1856 - St. Mary's Assumption - Rev. Henry Luhr

1854 - 1857 - St. Mary's Assumption - Rev. Louis Kramer

1857 - 1861 - St. Mary's Assumption - Rev. Francis X. Obermueller

1861 - 1862 - St. Mary's Assumption - Rev. Hammer

1862 - 1870 – St. Mary’s Assumption – Carroll and Jersey Sts., Rev. Stephen Falk

1871 - 1880 – St. Mary’s Assumption – Jersey and Carroll, Rev. Stephen Falk

1880 - 1885 – St. Mary’s Assumption – Jersey and Carroll, Rev. Michael Zoellner

1885 - 1894 – St. Mary’s Assumption – Jersey and Carroll, Rev. John Neustich

1894 - 1902 – St. Mary’s Assumption – Jersey and Carroll, Rev. Victor Scheppach

1906 – St. Mary’s Assumption – Jersey and Carroll, Rev. Anthony Hartmann

1908 – St. Mary’s Assumption – W. 30th at Carroll, Rev. Anthony Hartmann

1909 - 1910 - St. Mary's Assumption - W. 30th at Carroll, Rev. Andrew Smrekar

1913 - 1921 – St. Mary’s Assumption – W. 30th at Carroll, Rev. Rudolph Meschenmoser

1924 - 1928 – St. Mary’s Assumption – W. 30th at Carroll, Rev. Augustine Hackert

ST. MARYS OF THE ASSUMPTION (SLOVENIAN)

15519 Holmes

1908 – St. Mary’s of the Assumption – Crosby near Case, Rev. Mark Paklz

1913 – St. Mary’s of the Assumption – 15519 Holmes Ave., Rev. Andrew Sturekar

1918 – St. Mary’s of the Assumption – 15519 Holmes, Rev. Paul Hribar

1921 – St. Mary’s of the Assumption – 15519 Holmes, Rev. Joseph Skur

1924 - 1928 – St. Mary’s of the Assumption – 15519 Holmes, Rev. Vitus Hribar

ST. MICHAEL (GERMAN) (1889)

3114 Scranton Road

From The Encyclopedia of Cleveland History:

Large German immigrations in 1881 made necessary the establishment of a school as the first unit of a new parish at the corner of Scranton Road and Clark Ave.  In July, 1881, a lot at the northwest corner of Scranton and Clark Avenues was bought, and 3/4's of the purchase price was paid by St. Mary's Church.  In the autumn of that year a two-room frame school house was erected.  Mass was celebrated at a temporary altar in one of the rooms.  The Rev. Joseph M. Koudelka was the first pastor and placed the parish under the patronage of St. Michael the Archangel.  In January, 1882, the school was opened with 155 children in charge of two Notre Dame Sisters.  In 1883 a small frame house was built for the pastor.  In March 1884 a larger property on the southwest corner of Scranton and Clark was secured for $5,600 and on June 19, 1888 ground was broken for the present church.  The exterior was completed in 1888 and it was decided to do no further building until the current indebtedness had been reduced.  The church was completed in 1890.  A fire in 1891 almost entirely destroyed the frame church and school built 8 years before.  A temporary altar and pews were placed in the still uncompleted new church and the first Mass was said 5 years ahead of the time planned.  The present church was dedicated on November 20, 1892.  The convent was built in 1905 and the large school was finished the next year.  The present pastor is the Rev. John F. Gruss who has served since 1964.

A German congregation built the magnificent St. Michael’s Church in 1888. This nationally-recognized High Style Gothic Revival structure features an imposing exterior and an impressive sanctuary. The original buff-colored rubble stone has darkened with age.  This exquisite church is furnished with over 50 polychrome statues imported from Germany.  The altar is modeled after the altar of the Church of St. Francis in Borgo, Italy.  The main bell tower soars to 232 feet making St. Michaels one of the most distinctive churches in Cleveland.  Architect:  Adolph Druiding.  It caters to the multicultural population, conducting services in English and Spanish.

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

Prior to the 1880's the south side of Cleveland (now the Tremont and Clark-Fulton area) had very few Catholic German immigrants residing there.  An influx of German Catholics from West Prussia, Kreisen, Marienburg and Danzig changed that.  They worshipped at St. Mary Church on Carroll Avenue or St. Joseph Franciscan Church on Woodland Avenue.  Some were dismayed at the distance their children would travel to reach the parish schools so they approached the pastor of St. Mary's, Father Michael Zoeller, S.J. for advice on starting a German Catholic school for the children of the south side.  Armed with petitions and pledges of financial support, the committee and Father Zoeller met with Bishop Gilmour, The Bishop approved the plan and a frame school building was constructed on the corner of Clark Avenue and Scranton Road.  Father Zoeller secured the services of the Notre Dame Sisters for the school.  Two sisters, Sister Mary Florentine, and Sister Mary Eusoebia welcomed 155 students on January 12, 1882, the first day of school.  Realizing that the very old and very young had difficulty traveling to the German churches, Father Zoeller began saying Mass in the school building.  Even though the German Catholics of the south side now had regular church services, a school, and property, they were still a mission of St. Mary Parish.  On July 15, 1883, Bishop Gilmour granted them parochial status when he named Father Joseph Mary Koudelka, the first pastor of the new congregation.  The parish was placed under the patronage of Saint Michael the Archangel.  Father Koudelka was Bohemian by birth and quite young (only 31 years), but he was enthusiastically welcomed by his congregation.  The combination church school building was decorated for church services and blessed by Bishop Gilmour on October 21, 1883.  Father Koudelka believed in an active Catholic laity.  He saw organizations as a means of deepening the spiritual and communal life of the parish.  He organized the St. Ann Christian Mothers' Organization and the St. Michael Sickness and Death Benefit Society and sodalities for the young.  The rapid growth of the parish necessitated a new building.  Property was purchased on Clark Ave. across from the school building.  Work was begun and the cornerstone laid on July 7, 1889.  The plans called for an imposing Victorian Gothic structure with three life size statues of angels over the front entrance.  Disaster struck when a fire burned the combination church-school building on June 29, 1891 and forced the congregation to use the partially finished church.  Father Koudelka personally supervised the work.  Besides being a writer and linguist, he was an artist and he designed the interior of the church.  The elaborate wood carving, the imposing altars, the imported German stained glass and stations of the cross gave the church a distinguished place among Cleveland's congregations.  Bishop Ignatius Horstmann alluded to this when he dedicated the church on November 20, 1892.  The parish needed a new school.  Emil Uhlrich designed the building and work was begun in 1906.  This massive building would house both a grade school and high school (established in 1909). One of the proudest moments in the history of the parish occurred on February 25, 1908 when Rev. Koudelka was consecrated the first Auxiliary Bishop of Cleveland.  His successor, Father Joseph B. Paulus served for only two years when Father John A. Schaffeld was given charge of the parish.  The parish still retained a strong German identity, but its younger parishioners saw themselves as American.  In 1925 English hymns were introduced in the church liturgy.  In 1943 the Notre Dame Sisters established a four-year high school program.  In May of that year Father Schaffeld died and Father Roman Bacher became the pastor.  In 1944 he convened a group of male parishioners and the parish Holy Name Society was established.  By the 1940's slightly over one quarter of the parishioners were German.  Bishop Edward Hoban agreed that it was time to make St. Michael a territorial parish rather than a nationality parish.  Father Bacher also had building projects:  a new rectory was built in 1949 and a convent constructed in 1955.  Father Bacher died on January 15, 1964 and was succeeded by Father John Gruss.  Father Gruss recognized that many Puerto Ricans and other Hispanics were moving into the neighborhood and established a ministry to them at St. Michael.  In 1969 the parish high school, which had been under the direction of the Notre Dame Sisters, merged with three other Cleveland Catholic high schools to become Cleveland Central Catholic.  The building was renovated, but the parish lost its hall area.  The parishioners met and raised the funds to buy property and construct Gruss Hall which was completed in 1970.  In 1975 Father Gruss retired and was succeeded by Father Richard Ziegler whose pastorate was cut short by illness.  In 1980 Father Dennis O'Grady became pastor.  In the mid-1980's the Notre Dame Sisters proposed the merger of the parish schools of St. Boniface, St. Michael, and St. Stephen.  The parishes accepted the plan and Metro Catholic School was opened in September of 1988.  The educational programs were centralized at St. Stephen and St. Boniface schools, so Cleveland Central Catholic was able to take over the entire St. Michael building. 

From Waechter und Anzeiger Newspaper 1902:

Through 1880 the southwestern part of Cleveland was only lightly populated, and most of this belonged to St. Mary’s on Jersey Street.  The heavy immigration from Germany which followed brought so many to that part of the city that the desire was expressed for a German parish school.  The project was supported by Father Zoeller, then minister of St. Mary’s, and on April 16, 1881 permission was given by the bishop to establish not only a school but also a congregation.  In summer, 1881 a lot was purchased at the corner of Scranton and Clark Avenue.  In the autumn, a frame building was built on the site consisting of two schoolrooms.  Father Zoeller had a small alter placed in the school room.  The building became too small and another two-story building of respectable dimensions was planned.  The upper story was to be dedicated to divine services.  The young congregation received a minister of its own on July 15, 1883 in the person of Rev. Joseph Maria Koudelka.  The two-story church and school house were first consecrated on October 21, 1883.  In the years immediately following it was decided that a larger church would have to be built in a few years.  In March, 1884 a lot was purchased across from its previous property, at the corner of Clark and Scranton for the building of a future great church.  In the meantime, a temporary schoolhouse was put up.  In 1897 another schoolroom was built so that now there were seven large classrooms in which 234 boys and 227 girls received instruction. 

The steadily growing congregation now decided to approach the church project.  On June 19, 1988 the excavation of the foundation was begun.  In this year the foundation alone was completed.  Early the next year the other contracts were given out.  On April 7, 1889 the cornerstone was laid.  In 1890 the towers were built and the roof covered with tiles.  A colossal figure of the Archangel Michael, patron of the congregation, was placed on the forward gable.  Two other life-sized statues decorate the front façade – the archangels Gabriel and Raphael.  During the winter months the interior work was done.  It was the intention of the congregation only to do each year what their money permitted.  It was hoped that they could complete the church by 1893, but on June 29, 1891, early in the morning, the old church and school burned down with all its contents.  The new church was at once equipped for divine service though it was still unfinished.  At the start of March, 1892, the work was advanced to allow the scaffolding to be taken out of the church.  Finally on November 20, 1892, the church was consecrated.

1883 - 1911 – St. Michael – Scranton at Clark, Rev. Joseph Koudelka

1886 - St. Michael - Scranton at Clark, Rev. George Schoenman

1895 - St. Michael - Scranton at Clark, Rev. Ludwig Herberth

1902 - 1911 - St. Michael - Scranton at Clark, Rev. August Brieg

1911 - 1913 – St. Michael – Scranton at Clark, Rev. J.M. Paulus

1913 - 1943 – St. Michael – Scranton at Clark, Rev. J.A. Schaffeld

1943 - 1964 - St. Michael - Scranton at Clark, Rev. Roman Bacher

1964 - 1975 - St. Michael - Scranton at Clark, Rev. John Gruss

1975 - St. Michael - Scranton at Clark, Rev. Richard Ziegler

ST. NICHOLAS (CROATIAN)

3431 Superior

1906 – St. Nicholas – St. Clair near Lyman, Rev. Maxim Relic

1921 – St. Nicholas – Superior at E. 36th

1924 - 1928 – St. Nicholas – Superior at E. 36th, Rev. Milan Hranilovich

ST. PATRICK (IRISH)

3602 Bridge Avenue

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

St. Patrick is currently located at 3602 Bridge Avenue.  It was founded July 2, 1853 and the parishioners built a church on Whitman Avenue.  As the church became too small, property was purchased on Bridge Avenue.  Ground was broken in 1870, the cornerstone was set in 1871, and the church, although unfinished, was occupied for worship on May 1, 1873.  A friend of the parish who owned a quarry in Sandusky, offered the blue limestone free to the community provided they cut and hauled it themselves.  For two years, a group would leave after Sunday Mass, staying overnight at an inn in Lorain.  They continued on to Sandusky and quarried stone all week.  On Saturday they would return and unload.  Meanwhile, another group cut and placed stone.  By January 1 1889, the church was competed and debt free.  More improvements began.  The church was finally completed and consecrated on March 17, 1931.

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1942

St. Patrick’s Church, Mother church of the West Side, was founded on July 2, 1853.  Rev. James Conlan was appointed as first pastor.  Two lots on Whitman Avenue were purchased, and upon them was built a brick church.  During the first year the church housed the boys’ school, but shortly after that, a one-story brick building was built for the boys.  The girls’ school opened also in 1853, in temporary quarters at Franklin Circle.  The church was consecrated November 29, 1857.  In 1863 the girls’ school was removed from the Circle to the lower floor of Temperance Hall, a newly constructed parish building just west of the church on Whitman Street.  At that time the boys were being taught on the upper floor of the large two-story brick school, which in 1865 was duplicated for the girls on the site of the one-story brick building which had been razed.  The church property on Bridge Avenue was bought in 1870, and the cornerstone of the present church laid in August, 1871. 

From: History of St. Patrick’s Parish, Cleveland, Ohio, 1853-1903, edited by Francis Moran:

The early pioneers of St. Patrick’s inaugurated the work of establishing the great congregation whose jubilee we are now celebrating.  In old St. Mary’s Church, on the Flats, which was then the center of Catholicity, these people gathered every Sunday and holy day, many coming on foot from far distances.  Farmers or others having vehicles rode from Euclid and Collinwood on the east and Dover and Rockport on the west, upon all kinds of bad roads.

The dedication of St. John’s Cathedral, on November 8, 1852, withdrew from the church of St. Mary’s those parishioners living east of the river and suggested the idea of forming a new congregation for those on the West Side, or “Ohio City,” as it was then known.  With the consent of Rev. Bishop Rappe, two lots were purchased on Whitman Street from Horace Foote on July 2, 1853 for $650.  Rev. James Conlan was assigned as pastor, and steps were immediately taken for the erection of a new church and school house.

The new church opened in January, 1854, with the interior in an unfinished state.  In October, 1853, a two-story brick school house, which had been erected at the intersection of Fulton Street and the “Circle”, upon the site now occupied by the Disciples Church, was opened as a school for the girls, under the direction of Mothers St. Mary and St. Alphonsus.

Father James Conlan was joined in his labors by his cousin, Rev. James Vincent Conlan, who was appointed as his assistant in December, 1855.  The church on Whitman was finally completed at a cost of about $10,000, and was duly consecrated on November 27, 1857.  The building was located in about the center of the site at present occupied by the school building.  It was set back about 10-15 feet from the sidewalk and extended nearly to the alley in the rear and would seat about 500-600 people. 

It appears, although there is no record, that the first Mass was celebrated on Christmas day in 1853, the church still incomplete.  Very shortly after that date, probably in the early part of 1854, a school for boys was opened in the church, the northern part of the building being detached by means of folding doors.  The girls’ school, near the Circle, which opened in October, 1853, was continued.  The accommodations of the church soon became inadequate for a boys’ school, and a long, one-story brick building, running parallel with the alley and facing Whitman Street was erected.  The girls were taught by two Ursuline Sisters, and for a time the instruction of the boys was conducted by a layman until the coming of the Brothers of Mary in August, 1856.

The congregation grew rapidly and soon the school was overtaxed and more room was needed.  During the summer of 1863, a new two-story building was erected about 30 feet west of the church on Whitman.  In September, 1863, this new structure was opened, the girls occupying the lower and the boys the upper floor.  The demand for more space still continued until 1865, when another two-story brick building, similar in size and plan to the one just described, was erected east of the church on the site of the little one-story building, so that the church was then flanked on either side by the school buildings.

In 1873, the property now occupied by the Brothers’ residence was purchased and a building erected.  Until the coming of Father O’Callaghan, the priests were domiciled in a rented house; originally on Fulton Street near the Circle, latterly and for a long time on the same street near its intersection with Bridge Street, and finally on Carroll Street, near St. Mary’s Church. 

For a number of years, St. Patrick’s continued to be the only Catholic congregation on the West Side, which changed by the organization of the following named parishes:  St. Augustine’s, 1860; St. Mary of the Assumption, 1865; St. Malachi’s, 1869; Annunciation, 1871; St. Stephen’s, 1873; St. Procop’s, 1874; St. Colman’s, 1880; St. Michael’s, 1883; St. John Cantius, 1899’ St. Rose of Lima, 1900, and Blessed Sacrament, 1903.  All these churches owe a tribute of allegiance to St. Patrick’s as their cherishing mother.

The thoughts of the members turned to erecting a larger and more stately church edifice.  In July, 1870, the property on Bridge Street, upon which the present church stands, was purchased and the work of construction began.  The foundation was begun in the early fall of 1870, and in August, 1871, the cornerstone was laid.  The construction of this substantial building at a very large expense was begun.  As the work progressed, a season of financial stringency developed, which extended throughout the whole country.  It had been the pastor’s purpose to push the work as rapidly only as the people’s contributions permitted, and to avoid going into any great debt; but with the walls only partially raised, it was necessary to cover them so that the work already done might be protected, and this caused a large amount of debt at a high rate of interest.  The contributions of the people, although generous for their stinted circumstances, were barely sufficient to meet the running expenses and large amount of interest that annually accrued.  This gloomy condition was further complicated by the continued illness of the pastor, who was for a long time a helpless invalid at St. Vincent’s Hospital, where he finally yielded his soul to God on March 5, 1875. 

Father James Vincent Conlan then succeeded to the pastorate, and with the assistance of Father Sheridan, bravely continued the work of completing the church.  Father Vincent’ excelled more as an orator than as a financier, and his efforts in the latter capacity not being equal to the great emergency that confronted him, the Rev. Bishop thought it proper to replace him in his office as pastor.  On May 1, 1877, Rev. Eugene O’Callaghan was appointed as pastor.  Father O’Callaghan was gifted with a rare degree of business tact, and he resolved not only to attempt the reduction of the heavy debt, but also to undertake the work of completing the interior of the church, as by this time the old church, still occupied for the Children’s Masses, was entirely too small to meet the needs of the continually increasing congregation.

By his powers of persuasion, he soon aroused the lethargic and dispirited people to some measure of action.  They determined to carry out the extensive plans that he suggested.  Contracts were soon made for plastering and frescoing the church.  During 1881, over $22,000 was raised, including loans to the amount of $4,000.  The sacred edifice was soon in a condition for continued use.  Finally, the old sanctuary on Whitman Street was entirely abandoned for the larger building on Bridge Street.  During the administration of Father Mahoney, the congregation was called upon to mourn the death of Father James Vincent Conlan, who died at St. Vincent’s Hospital on March 15, 1883. 

Father Mahoney continued his heroic efforts, gradually meeting the expense of the many improvements, not neglecting each year to make some substantial reduction of the debt which the congregation had so long labored under.  Finally, on January 1, 1889, he surprised the people with the announcement that the congregation was entirely free from debt.  The people were in hearty accord with Father Mahoney’s next project of constructing a new pastoral residence.  He purchased the lot just west of and adjoining the present parochial residence, which was promptly paid for.  The sad and startling news came that their pastor lay cold and dead in the pastoral residence on September 29, 1889.

A meeting was held March 9, 1890.  The result was a determination to undertake the construction of a splendid new hall and school building.  Accordingly, the venerable church building and the two school houses adjacent to it were torn down and the erection of the new building commended.  On May 14, 1890, the children took final leave of their school buildings.  On the following day final services were held in the old church.  On May 18, throngs of people visited the church to take their last farewell.  On the following Monday, the work of demolition began upon the three buildings, and on June 5, ground was broken for the foundation, with the laying of the first stone on June 18, 1890.  The great building took a year to complete.  The school rooms were opened for use on April 8, 1891, the children in the meantime having been taught in the church building on Bridge Street, where the primary grades were located, and also in the school buildings of St. Mary’s and St. Malachi’s parishes, where the more advanced classes were held. 

St. Patrick’s Schools

The Girls’ Schools

The establishment of parochial schools in St. Patrick’s, dates back to the very beginning of its history.  Some time during 1853, or possibly the year preceding, a parcel of ground, situated on Fulton Street, at its intersection with Franklin Park, of what in those days was known as “The Circle,” was purchased for church purposes by Rev. Bishop Rappe.  This property, which is now the site of the Franklin Avenue Disciples’ Church, it seems was originally designed as the location of the proposed St. Patrick’s Church.  Why a change in location was determined upon has not been fully ascertained, but it is stated that the close proximity to the Circle, which was then a public market place, made it undesirable for church purposes.

Upon this lot eventually was built a two-story brick building, with four good-sized rooms, two on each story, which was devoted to the purposes of a Catholic school for girls, and was attended from all parts of the west and south sides, or as these localities were then known, Ohio City, University Heights, and Brooklyn Heights.  Previous to this time there was no Catholic school for girls except the distant convent of the Ursuline Sisters on Euclid Avenue near Erie Street.  St. Patrick’s was the first school ever taught by the Ursuline Sisters outside their convent walls, the Cathedral school having its rooms upon the convent grounds.

The school in Ohio City was opened in October, 1853, by Mother St. Mary and Mother St. Alphonsus, permission having been previously obtained from Rome by Bishop Rappe for the Ursulines, who until then were strictly cloistered, to leave their convent for the purpose of teaching parochial schools.  These two sisters taught the new school for about two years.  The first Sunday school was taught by Mother Mary Austin, deceased.

When St. Patrick’s Girls’ School was first opened in October, 1853, there were about 150 scholars in attendance.  The number increased until three of the four rooms of the building were filled.  When there were but three teachers, the fourth room was used as a dining room for the sisters.  The sisters were conveyed from the convent to the school and from school to convent in a carriage driven by Mr. Lawrence Wagner, the sexton of the Cathedral.

When the schools were dismissed at noon and evening, the pupils were formed in ranks under the care of a monitor and marched two by two upon certain designated streets leading to their homes.  The two rooms in the upper floor of the building on the Circle were known as the “pay school” and the rooms on the lower floor as the “free school.”  The pupils of the higher grade of the “pay school” were required to pay $1 per month for their tuition, whilst those of the lower grade paid fifty cents.  In addition to this, the “pay scholars” were required to contribute a per capita assessment for chalk, ink, brooms, doormats, etc.  This arrangement of pay and free schools was finally abolished in 1863 on account of its tendency to establish undue distinctions amongst the scholars.

The girls continued to occupy the building at the Circle until the summer vacation of 1863, when they were assigned to the lower floor of the newly constructed building on Whitman Street west of the church, known as “Temperance Hall.”  The upper floor of this large two-story brick edifice was at that time used as the boys’ school and the lower floor was occupied by three classes of the girls, whilst a fourth class of girls was temporarily located in the little one-story brick building east of the church, which had formerly been occupied by the boys.  This one-story brick building was torn down in 1865, and upon its site was erected a large two-story brick building, corresponding in size and general arrangement to the building west of the church.  This newer building was assigned exclusively to the use of the girls, whom it harbored in four fair-sized rooms until eventually in 1879 even these enlarged quarters became too cramped and a fifth class was organized from the smaller girls who were assigned a room in the boys’ school.

These became inadequate to the rapidly increasing growth of the congregation.  Extensions of the building were made, partitions erected, and ungainly outside staircases leading to the upper rooms were constructed.  Finally, Father O’Brien’s bold and expansive scheme of tearing down all the old buildings and erecting a grand, commodious and properly equipped building gradually impressed itself upon the people.  It was wisely resolved that it would be better to assume the burden of another heavy debt than allow the existing intolerable conditions to continue.  The children of St. Patrick’s entered their new and stately building on April 8, 1891.  During the progress of construction, the children had been scattered in various localities.  Some were taught in the body of the church building on Bridge Street, whilst others were quartered in the school rooms of St. Mary’s and St. Malachi’s parishes.

The Boys’ School

The early history of the boy’s school is enveloped in considerable obscurity, but nevertheless some quite interesting and t is believed fairly authentic particulars have been secured.  It is ascertained that the first Mass was held in St. Patrick’s Church on Christmas day in the year 1853, the building then being in an incomplete condition.  Very shortly after that date, probably in the early part of the year 1854, a school for boys was opened in the church, the building being then a large oblong room with a flat ceiling only 14 feet in height.  The northern portion of the building was separated from the sanctuary on the southern end by means of a folding partition and this portion was utilized during weekdays for school purposes.

The first teacher was a layman named J.H. Graham, represented as being a tall, slim, genteel personage, with a long flowing beard, who taught for but a short time, when he was succeeded by Mr. John Hayes, who continued in charge of the boys until the coming of the Brothers of Mary in August, 1856.  Mr. Hayes was assisted a portion of the time by Mr. John O’Rourke, who afterwards studied for the priesthood.  The average attendance at the boys’ school whilst in the church was about one hundred.

To give young men an opportunity to receive a college education under Catholic auspices, Bishop Rappe purchased in 1854 (deeds show the lots were purchased between 1852-1855) the triangular piece of property situated at the intersection of Carroll Street with Fulton Street (now Rhodes Avenue).  The incomplete frame buildings upon this property were remodeled and the institution was opened in September, 1854, under the name of St. John’s College, and was for a time under the direction of Professor William Wakefield, a relative by marriage to the Fathers Conlan.  Rev. Louis Molon was the superior and a professor of the college for a few months during the year 1855, and Rev. Seraphin Bauer, the present rector of St. Joseph’s Church, Fremont, Ohio, was one of its first prefects.  The institution, after the coming of the Brothers of Mary in August, 1856, was placed under their direction and was conducted as a college, receiving boarding scholars.  Brother Koenig was prominent as one of the principals of the college, but the enterprise failed for want of support and was discontinued as a college in the year 1859.  The school rooms of this institution were for a time utilized as an overflow convenience for the boys attending St. Patrick’s schools.

About the time that St. John’s College was started, a small one-story brick building was erected on the corner of Whitman Street and the alley east of the church, and in this building the boys were taught by Mr. Hayes and his assistant, Mr. O’Rourke.

In August, 1856, Brother John Baptist Stintzi arrived to take charge of the school, and he was shortly afterwards followed by Brother Anthony Heitz, who for some time assisted Brother Stintzi in his laborious duties.  The author of these notes has in his possession an interesting sketch written by Brother Stintzi describing the conditions that prevailed at the time the Brothers of Mary inaugurated their primitive career in St. Patrick’s.  He relates that Father James Conlan, the pastor, in announcing the coming of the Brothers said in effect: “The Brothers have at last arrived, but they are poor, having made a vow of poverty.  They are dwelling in a house in which everything is wanting; they have not even a stool to sit upon.  Now, although you are poor yourselves, every family can spare something, be it ever so little – a spoon, a fork, a table knife, a bowl, a plate, a saucer, etc.  Anything will be accepted with thankfulness.”  It was amusing to witness the ill-assorted medley of articles that showered in upon the good brothers on the following day.  A blue bowl to match a white saucer; forks and knives of all sizes, shapes, and descriptions; plates too large and plates too small.  The saintly Bishop Rappe, however, thought of what was more substantial and better calculated to hold soul and body together.  He kindly sent the Brothers a barrel of flour and a few pounds of tea, coffee, and sugar.

At the opening of the school on the first Monday I September, 1856, there were not less than 180 pupils, ranging in age from six to eighteen years, to be taught by Brother Stintzi.  The accommodations of the school were exceedingly limited, and both teachers and pupils were obliged to make the best of their surroundings.  There were not even seats enough to supply the scholars, so that some of the smaller chaps had to content themselves with the “privileges of the floor.”

Shortly after the coming of the Brothers, it was found that the accommodations of the small school were insufficient, so Brother Heitz took a class of about 80 boys to one of the rooms of the building occupied by St. John’s College, the latter building also serving as a residence for the Brothers.

In May, 1857, Brother Stintzi was called to Dayton to assist in the restoration of the boarding school of the community, which had been destroyed by fire.  He was then succeeded in the direction of the schools by Brother Henry Wuestenfield, who raised the school from its primitive condition to a much higher standard of excellence during the three years of his administration.  It was at this period that the practice of having the children attend daily morning Mass was introduced.

During the year 1859, Brother Heitz was replaced by Brother A. Huber.  About this time, the children’s choir was formed.  At the beginning of the scholastic year, in September, 1859, Brother Stintzi resumed the direction of the schools, replacing Wuestenfield, who was transferred to St. Mary’s School, Cincinnati. 

In the year 1862, a lot situated to the west of the church on Whitman Street, was purchased by the congregation, and in the early spring of that year a large two-story brick building was erected.  This building was occupied for school purposes during the summer of 1863.  It was also intended that the lower floors should serve as a chapel for the daily Mass on weekdays, and with this design, two confessionals and a small altar were erected at the southern end of the large room.  This room was also for a long time utilized as a meeting room for the temperance society, which in those days was quite an extensive organization, whilst the room at the north end was occupied by the St. Vincent de Paul Society, also a very popular organization, which did a great amount of good in relieving the wants of the poor.  The second story was divided into two large rooms, which accommodated about 200 pupils, and this story was later subdivided into three classrooms.  In the autumn of 1863, the lower rooms of this building were assigned temporarily to the use of the girls until the completion of the other school on the east side of the church, which was devoted to their exclusive use upon its completion in 1865.  The latter building replaced the original one-story structure, which had formerly been used by the boys.  Three classes of girls took possession of this building, the structure costing $5,000, or about double the amount expended for the similarly sized building west of the church, the intervening Civil War having caused a great increase in the value of materials and labor.

In 1866, the boys’ school had three large classes, and in 1869 a fourth class of the more advanced pupils was formed and a higher grade established.  At this time there were two classes located in each story of the building.

At the end of the scholastic year in 1869, Brother Stintzi was again recalled to the Motherhouse in Dayton, where he was appointed as Inspector of Schools for the community.  He was succeeded by Brother Michael Donnelly, who had the direction of St. Patrick’s Schools from 1869 till 1871.  Brother Simon Weisinger was in charge during the year 1871.  His successor was Brother Jacob Christ, who taught until the year 1875 and shortly afterwards died.  Next came Brother Patrick Gallagher until 1878, then Brother John Serenus Quinlan.  In 1879, Brother George Stragand held the position of director until the close of the school year, when the brothers left the school and it was conducted by lay teachers until September, 1882.  During this interval, the schools were under the direction of Mr. Augustine P. Barrett, the primary classes being taught by lady teachers.

In September, 1882, the Brothers of Mary again resumed the management of the schools under Brother Edward Hennessey, who was recalled in 1886.  Brother Stintzi, for the third time, assumed the management in August, 1886, and continued until April 2, 1888, when he was succeeded by Brother John henry.  It was during his administration that the children enjoyed the advantage of occupying the splendid new school building.  He was recalled in 1896.  Brother Joseph Gallagher, a prominent teacher in one of the Catholic schools at Washington, D.C., and our present proficient director since 1896, Brother John Waldron, were both reared and educated in St. Patrick’s Schools. 

Much of the narrative of the history of the boys’ schools has already been related in the preceding sketch of the girls’ schools as the events were contemporaneous.  The experience in withdrawing from the old buildings; their being scattered in several portions of the West Side in different parishes, and finally their happy return and occupation of their own commodious structure and other kindred events are identical with that of the girls.

The general list of studies taught in both the boys’ and girls’ schools is as follows:  Christian Doctrine, Bible History, Church History, Orthography, Reading, Grammar, Composition and Rhetoric, English Literature, Penmanship, Universal History, Geography, Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Commercial Law, Bookkeeping, Phonography, Typewriting, Elocution, Linear Drawing, Freehand Drawing, Plain and Fancy Sewing (girls’ school), Hygiene, Singing, Theory and Practice.

ST. PATRICK CLEVELAND HISTORICAL https://clevelandhistorical.org/items/show/1007

In 1903, when William A. Manning wrote his "History of St. Patrick's Parish," the first generation of Irish Catholics who founded St. Patrick parish in 1853 was already slowly beginning to disappear. Manning urged his readers to remember them, not just for the grand church and other buildings they had erected on the parish campus, but just as importantly for the strong and caring community they had created on Cleveland's Near West Side.

Up until 1852, there was only one Catholic church in Cleveland. It was Our Lady of the Lake—better known as St. Mary of the Flats—located at Cleveland Centre. That changed when the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist on Erie (East Ninth) Street was dedicated and opened for services that year, providing Catholics living east of the Cuyahoga River with a neighborhood church. And that, in turn, gave rise to requests by Irish and German Catholics living in Ohio City—which would soon become Cleveland's West Side—for parishes and churches of their own. Bishop Amadeus Rappe, Cleveland's first Catholic bishop, responded to the German Catholics by granting them permission to form a new parish called St. Mary of the Assumption and giving them temporary possession of St. Mary of the Flats church, pending construction of a church of their own on the southwest corner of Carroll and Jersey (West 30th) Streets, which was completed and dedicated in 1865. 

The Bishop also gave permission to the Irish Catholics living in Ohio City to form a parish of their own, which they named St. Patrick after their patron saint. In 1853, Rappe appointed Father James Conlan, his vicar general and an immigrant from Ireland, to be the first pastor of the new parish and authorized the parish to build a church on a lot on the south side of Merchant (later, Whitman) Street, between Woodbine and Kentucky (West 38th). It took four years to build and dedicate that church—a small brick Gothic-style building—though services were held in it, according to several sources, as early as Christmas of 1853. 

The new St. Patrick parish also soon made arrangements for the parochial education of its children. Initially, school-aged boys were taught in a temporary classroom within the nave of the church on Whitman and girls in another diocese-owned building on Franklin Circle where the Franklin Circle Christian Church stands today. More permanent arrangements were made in 1863 when a two-story brick building that held classrooms for boys on the second floor and girls on the first was erected on the lot on Whitman immediately to the west of the church. Two years later, a second two-story brick school building was built on Whitman on the lot immediately to the east of the church. When opened, this second building became the school for girls of the parish, and the building to the west now became exclusively the boys' school.

The church and two school buildings on Whitman constituted the entirety of the St. Patrick parish campus on June 15, 1870, when 23-year-old Western Union telegraph operator William A. Manning married Mary Devine, a West Sider and second generation Irish-American, in that church. Manning's parents were Irish, but they had moved to Scotland where he was born in 1847. The family then immigrated to the United States in 1849, living first on the East Coast, before continuing west and eventually settling on Cleveland's East Side. They resided in rental properties until 1867 when Manning's parents purchased a house on Oregon Street (today, Rockwell Avenue) between Dodge (East 17th) and North Perry (East 21st) Streets. After he married, William Manning moved from his family's house on the East Side to the West Side and, in the process, became a member of St. Patrick's parish.  

The year 1870 was an important one for St. Patrick parish too. As a result of a large population increase on Cleveland's West Side in the decades of the 1850s and 1860s—much of it consisting of Irish Catholics—the parish church on Whitman had become too small to serve the parish. The Cleveland Diocese had addressed this population increase by consenting to the formation of two new West Side Irish Catholic parishes, St. Augustine parish on the South Side in 1860 and St. Malachi on the West Side in 1865. However, despite the formation of these new parishes, membership in St. Patrick parish continued to grow and the parish, still led by its first pastor Father Conlan, and with diocese approval, decided to build a new and larger church. Several lots or parts of lots were purchased on Bridge Street (Avenue), immediately south of the church on Whitman, and, by late summer of 1870, construction was begun on the new church—the one which still stands today on Bridge Avenue.

The original design of the new St. Patrick's church on Bridge Avenue was created by Samuel Lane of the Cleveland architectural firm of Koehler and Lane. However, in the early years of the project, architect Alfred Green superintended the building of the church. As a result of the Panic of 1872 and ongoing parish financing challenges, it took some 60 years to complete the construction of the church, although enough was finished by 1877 to allow services to be held in the church and enough additional work was completed by 1882 to permit it to be dedicated. Over the course of the years that followed, other architects weighed in and, at times, modified Lane's original design.

That design, according to a Plain Dealer article on August 21, 1871, was for a Gothic-style church built with an exterior facade composed of two types of stone—in this case, sandstone and limestone—arranged in a manner known, according to architectural historian Tim Barrett, as polychromatic structuring. The building was to be 132 feet long and 67 feet wide, "exclusive of buttresses and sacristy," which were to be constructed "on the outside of the church." The walls of the church were to be 43 feet high "from table to wall plate, ninety-three from floor to ridge, and 230 feet from street line to top of spire." The interior of the church was "to have a highly enriched grained ceiling, and a main and two side aisles." The plan also called for an "elaborate stained and figured glass window at the back of the altar . . . which [was] to be one of the principal features in the sanctuary." The new church was expected to have a seating capacity for at least twelve hundred persons, which was more than double the seating capacity of the church on Whitman.

During the foregoing early period of the church's construction, the parish also added other buildings to the parish campus, including a residence on Whitman in 1873 for the Marianist Brothers who taught at St. Patrick's boys’ school and, in 1878, a parsonage or rectory, west of the new church on Bridge, for the parish priests. In 1890, St. Patrick parish turned its attention to its school buildings which had become overcrowded as the population of the parish continued to grow in this period. In that year, the old church and the two school buildings on Whitman were razed and, in their place, a large three-story school building was erected in 1891 which featured a parish hall on its third floor with seating capacity for 1,200 persons. At the time, as reported in the November 24, 1891 edition of the Catholic Observer, it was reputed to be the largest school building in the United States. According to a 1898 Diocese report, there were more than 900 students attending the school in that year.

With residences for the parish priests and Marianist brothers acquired, and the new school building on Whitman completed, parish attention turned once again to the uncompleted "new" church on Bridge. In the latter half of the 1890s, a number of improvements were made to the church in preparation for the 1903 celebration of the golden jubilee of the parish. In 1896, during the pastorship of Father James O'Leary, the interior of the church was frescoed; new windows, doors, altars, statues, and carpeting were added; and other various interior improvements made. Three years later, a new organ was installed in the interior of the church and chimes with eleven bells in the church tower. In 1903, during the tenure of new pastor Francis Moran, the tower of the church was finally completed, not with a steeple as contemplated by architect Samuel Lane in his original design, but instead with a pinnacled crown designed by Akron architect William P. Ginther.

In that golden jubilee year of 1903, William Manning, who had moved in 1897 from the Near West Side to the new streetcar suburb of Lakewood and in 1900 had become a founding member of St. Rose of Lima parish, returned to St. Patrick's to write a history of the first fifty years of the parish. Over the course of the nearly three decades in which he had been a member of St. Patrick's parish, he had been one of its most active members, had held a seat on the parish council for two decades, and, according to pastor Moran, had "charge of financial accounts and prepared the annual report." Manning had been acquainted with every pastor of the parish up to that date, and, as he noted in his history of the parish, was able to call upon a number of the older parishioners to fill in the gaps where his personal knowledge was not sufficient. If, as likely was the case, he had taken the streetcar back to St. Patrick while his history was a work in progress and stood on Bridge Avenue in front of the church to admire the pinnacled crown recently added to its tower, he would have seen nearly the same exterior as anyone who stands before it today—except the pinnacles he would have seen atop the crown are now gone. They were removed years ago when they began to crumble and fall, creating a safety hazard for pedestrians below. 

When he wrote his parish history, William Manning was very aware, as the lead to this story reveals, that many changes had come to the parish and its campus since its founding in 1853. And there were more to come, a good number of which Manning likely witnessed, as he lived for another 34 years, before dying in 1937 at the age of 90. In 1913, the parish built a 55-foot addition to the rear of the church designed by architect Edwin J. Schneider and within which a sacristy was added and the sanctuary and nave of the church enlarged. In 1931, the old wooden altars in the church were replaced with marble ones, a new pulpit was installed and the interior freshly repainted, leading to the consecration of the church on St. Patrick's Day of that year, an event 83-year-old William Manning would have almost certainly attended, health permitting.  

Another change to St. Patrick—the beginnings of which William Manning may have witnessed—was the thinning of the Irish population of the parish, which, according to Plain Dealer newspaper articles, may have begun as early as the 1930s. Irish Americans like Manning had been moving west to suburbs like West Cleveland (1871-1894), Lakewood, and others since the 1870s, leading to the creation of new Irish parishes, such as St. Colman on Gordon (West 65th) Street (1880) and St. Rose of Lima near the Cleveland-Lakewood border (1897). However, it is likely that it was the increased movement to the suburbs in the mid-20th century stimulated by the development of the interstate highway system and the post–World War II influx of Appalachian and Puerto Rican migrants to Cleveland's Near West Side that dramatically changed the ethnic composition of the parish. Moreover, in 1945, St. Mary of the Assumption church—located less than a quarter of a mile from St. Patrick's—became a chapel on the St. Ignatius High School campus when its parish apparently dissolved.  While some of its parishioners likely transferred to St. Stephen or St. Michael parish, both also historic German Catholic parishes in Cleveland, a number may have preferred to join St. Patrick parish, because its church was much closer, thereby also contributing to the thinning of the Irish membership there. (The ending of St. Mary parish also had another effect on St. Patrick's parish. Jesuit priests who previously had ministered to St. Mary's parish were reassigned. Included was Father Francis Callan who became pastor of St. Patrick's, and, for the next 35 years, Jesuit priests led the historic Irish parish.)

By 1971, when St. Patrick parish celebrated the 100th anniversary of the laying of the cornerstone of the church on Bridge Avenue, it was noted in a March 16, 1971 Plain Dealer article that there were only a few "patches" of Irish left in the parish and that the parish was now one of many different ethnicities, with fifteen percent of it speaking Spanish as a first language. In the 1980s, as Jesuit priests departed and diocesan priests returned to St. Patrick parish, the new pastor, Mark DiNardo, along with co-pastor Edward Camille, became the first diocesan priests in the history of the parish to not have Irish surnames. In 1985, Father DiNardo, sole pastor of St. Patrick parish after the reassignment of Father Camille in 1983, initiated a series of outreach programs, designed to help the inner-city homeless and poor. While Father DiNardo retired in 2017 after serving the parish as its pastor for 37 years, the programs, which include a Hunger Center, Charity of the Month, and Project Afford, have continued.

If William A. Manning were alive today to take a tour of the current St. Patrick parish campus, he would note with approval that many of the buildings that existed on the campus when he last visited are still standing, and he would likely be very sorry to hear that the grand school building on Whitman is not. It was razed by the parish in 1978, leading Plain Dealer columnist George Condon, an Irish-American, to advocate for the preservation of St. Patrick church as a "memorial to Irish immigrants." Manning might be most interested, however, to learn about the parish outreach programs and whether the parish had, over the years, reduced poverty, illness, and homelessness, and fostered a greater sense of community, in the Ohio City neighborhood, a feat that he believed the Irish immigrants who founded St. Patrick parish in 1853 had in their day achieved.

1853 - 1877 – St. Patrick – Whitman near Kentucky, Rev. James Conlan

1877 - 1880 – St. Patrick – Whitman near Kentucky, Rev. Eugene M. O’Callaghan

1883 - 1889 – St. Patrick – Bridge near Fulton, Rev. Timothy M. Mahoney

1889 - 1894 – St. Patrick – Bridge near Fulton, Rev. Patrick O’Brien

1898 - 1901 – St. Patrick – Bridge near Fulton, Rev. James O’Leary

1901 - 1928 – St. Patrick – Bridge near Fulton, Rev. Francis T. Moran

1928 – St. Patrick – Bridge near Fulton, Rev. John Kenny

ST. PAUL (CROATIAN)

1369 East 40th just south of St. Clair Avenue

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

St. Paul is the only church serving Latin Rite Croatians in Cleveland.  The Croatians first worshipped at St. Vitus Church.  In 1901, land was purchased on E. 40th Street near St. Clair.  In 1902, Rev. Milan Sutlic became the first pastor.  The cornerstone for a new church was laid in 1903 and on Easter Sunday, 1904 the first Mass was celebrated.

1904 - 1906 - St. Paul – Case near St. Clair, Rev. Milan Sutlic

1906 - 1907 - St. Paul – Case near St. Clair, Rev. Nicholas Griskovic

1908 - 1917 - St. Paul – E. 40th near St. Clair, Rev. Nicholas Griskovic

1917 - 1937 - St. Paul – E. 40th near St. Clair, Rev. M.C. Domladovic

1937 - 1965 - St. Paul – E. 40th near St. Clair, Rev. Joseph Misich

1965 - 1986 - St. Paul – E. 40th near St. Clair, Rev. Stephen Mrakuzic

1986 - 1987 - St. Paul – E. 40th near St. Clair, Rev. John Mueller

1987 - ???? -  St. Paul – E. 40th near St. Clair, Rev. Mirko Hladni

ST. PETER (GERMAN)

1533 East 17th

From:  Jubilee Edition of Waechter und Anzeiger Newspaper 1902

Since St. Mary’s was inconvenient for many German Catholics, who were scattered over the city, Father Luhr proposed that those living east of the river should have their own church.  A lot was purchased at Superior Street and Dodge Street.  In this way, St. Peter’s Church came into being.  The congregation is the oldest German Catholic church in the metropolis of the state of Ohio.  It was established on February 17, 1853.  On March 10, 1854, St. Peter’s obtained a large lot on Superior and Dodge Streets, on which they built a school and small church.  On August 17, 1857 the cornerstone to the present St. Peter’s Church was laid.  Pastor Luhr resigned in 1868.  He was succeeded by Pastor Francis Allen Westerholt.  He died on November 20, 1896 and Nicolaus Pfeil was his successor.  He came to Cleveland on June 6, 1897 from Avon, where he had led the Trinity Parish.  Properties were purchased on January 16, 1900 on Superior and Huntington Street for future expansion.  Pastor Pfeil is a child of Cleveland.  He is the son of our treasured fellow citizen, Lorenz Pfeil, who is now 82 years old.  He came from the Tauber Valley in Baden in 1847.  Pastor Pfeil was born in 1859, attending St. Mary’s school, then the St. Stephan’s parish school before studying in Canisius College of the Jesuits in Buffalo, which he graduated in 1878.  On July 1, 1883 he was consecrated a priest.

From the St. Peter website:

The founding of Saint Peter Church came but a few years after the establishment of the Diocese of Cleveland in 1846. In 1853, the first bishop of Cleveland, Amadeus Rappe, brought pioneer missionary John Luhr from Cincinnati to Cleveland to organize a parish for the growing number of German-speaking immigrants coming into the city. The new congregation, after worshipping for a short time at St. Mary in the Flats and then in the basement of the Cathedral Church, purchased land in 1854 on the corner of Superior Avenue and Dodge St. (now E. 17th).

A combination church and school was built immediately and in 1857 ground was broken for a permanent church, which was dedicated by Bishop Rappe in October of 1859. The church, designed by architects Heard and Porter, is now the oldest Catholic Church building in continuous use in the Diocese of Cleveland.

Both the parish and school grew steadily as waves of new immigrants poured into the city. The parish became the location for the first motherhouse, in Cleveland, of the Sisters of Notre Dame who taught at the school for over 120 years. In addition, the Brothers of Mary taught at St. Peters from 1854 until 1922.

The period between World War I and II saw the beginning of several changes for St. Peter's. As the city business district expanded, the neighborhood began to dwindle and the move to the suburbs took a toll on church membership. Still, many faithful members remained enabling the church to continue. With great joy, it celebrated its 100th anniversary in 1953.

The elementary school closed in the early 1960's and a large new addition was built to expand St. Peter High School. The school was merged in 1971 with two other Catholic schools to form Erieview High School.

By the early 1980's the congregation had become quite small. If St. Peter's was to be saved, a new direction had to be taken. In 1985 a joint ministry was formed with the Newman Center at Cleveland State and efforts were made to enhance the presence of the parish within the city. The new life which the students brought began to revitalize the life of the community in union with the continuing efforts of longtime parish members.

Final Mass at downtown St. Peter Catholic Church leaves 'an empty tomb' - Cleveland Plain Dealer April 4, 2010

The twelve final words on the back of St. Peter Catholic Church's Easter Sunday program said it most plainly.   A timeline spanning 156 years ended this way: "Parish suppressed and church building closed April 2010 by Bishop Richard Lennon."   But before the Rev. Robert Marrone kicked out the wooden blocks and locked the massive arched doors -- that had remained open to worshipers from all walks of life since 1859 -- he served up a forceful sermon.   His words were the last orated in the church thanks to an agreement with the Cleveland diocese to cancel a final Mass set for next week at which Lennon was to desanctify the church.  Marrone took aim at two audiences.  To church leaders, he warned that the closing of the downtown church and suppression of the parish would come to be seen as, "one of the most egregious mistakes ever made by this diocese."  He summoned history itself to make his point recalling early church leaders traveling on horseback, begging for money to build. All the pancake breakfasts, spaghetti dinners and rummage sales manned by parishioners to keep the church alive, afloat, during rough times. Members who carted in wheel barrels of concrete to pave a new floor on one of the hottest days of 1989 and, a few years later, the parishioner who carved their beloved altar in the courtyard.  And the last battle fought and won to restore the historic towers and edifice in the face of a city dwindling around it, just five years ago. Marrone said the decision would come not only to symbolize the abandoning of what he called the most historic church in the city and the dispersing its vital congregations but also "tragic and even sometimes sinful decisions" by church leaders -- leaders who were leaving the promises of Vatican II unfulfilled and leading instead with fear. The closing of St. Peter - a part of what he called the church closing epidemic - was not because of economics, or lack of clergy or parishioners, Marrone said.  Instead, it was a "steadfast refusal and or inability to imagine things in a different way."  To Marrone's flock, whom he sits among -- not above -- during Mass, the priest urged that they extricate themselves from their connection to the building where they worshipped.  As the hundreds there to celebrate their belief that Jesus Christ rose to give them new life, dabbed their eyes or sobbed as if they were attending a funeral for a beloved friend, Morrone prodded them forward.  "This community has always respected and honored its past but it has steadfastly refused to live in it," he said.  He said they would leave the white-washed walls and brilliant stained-glass windows, "as an empty tomb" which, going forward, will represent only the "incredible lack of faith, hope and love in our church."   But he urged the diverse group of church members, some who drive in from suburbs, some who walk from nearby shelters, to refuse to play it safe and keep their mouths shut. Rather, he said, they should be brave like Jesus' disciples.  And he cautioned them not to "mistakenly confuse blind obedience with faithfulness" and "allow more churches to become tombs to the living dead." Marrone warned that the collective silence of church faithful in the face of church officials' actions could make them equally culpable.   "The power of fear which has caused this injustice is not the last word, must not be the last word and will not be the last word," Marrone said.  "I know it seems unbearable but we can bear it. Go forth into the world and be living stones," Marrone said. "God will tent with us wherever he go."  And with that, the parishioners took with them, their light -- symbolized by thin white candles -- and left the church in a procession which took them sobbing into the street.  As they gathered in the sunshine, many parishioners vowed to move forward, each heading their beloved priest's advice in their own ways.  The Wienceks, a family of five that drives in from Medina County, didn't know where they would end up. Tom and Anka Wiencek have been members of St. Peter for 20 years.  "I'm thinking that many people will support the new community," Tom Wiencek said, referring to the non-profit Community of St. Peter to be housed in a building on Euclid Avenue.  He hoped it might even become a model.  "The people will become the stones," said Brenda Pestak, who met her husband at St. Peter on Good Friday in 1981, a day he carried the cross into the church.  "This is not the end," she said. "This is the beginning."  An end with one last message left inside the "tomb" for the man leading the charge to close more than 50 churches in the eight-county diocese.  At the foot of the altar, in a plastic baggie, coins glimmered and a note read: "A gift for Bishop Lennon. 30 pieces of silver for the one who has betrayed us." 

THIS CHURCH WAS ONE OF THOSE CLOSED IN THE CLEVELAND DIOCESE DOWNSIZING.  ITS FINAL MASS WAS ON APRIL 4, 2010.  IT APPEALED AND THE APPEAL WAS GRANTED BY THE VATICAN.   THIS CHURCH REOPENED SEPTEMBER 9, 2012 WITH REV. ROBERT KROPAC ASSIGNED THERE.

1847 - 1869 - St. Peter (GERMAN) - Superior and Dodge Streets, Rev. Anthony Krasny

1853 - 1868 - St. Peter - Superior and Dodge, Rev. John Luhr 

1868 - 1896 – St. Peter – Superior and Dodge Streets, Rev. Francis Allen Westerholt

1877 - 1879 – St. Peter – Superior and Dodge, Rev. T. Litterst

1896 - 1907 – St. Peter – Dodge and Superior, Rev. Nicholas Pfeil

1908 - 1935 – St. Peter – Superior at E. 17th, Rev. Nicholas Pfeil

1936 - 1940 - St. Peter - Superior at E. 17th, Rev. George Koob

1940 - 1945 - St. Peter - Superior at E. 17th, Rev. George Dennerle

1945 - 1975 - St. Peter - Superior at E. 17th, Rev. Jerome Schneider

1975 - St. Peter - Superior at E. 17th, Rev. Richard Byrne

SS. PETER AND PAUL (UKRAINIAN)

2280 West 7th at the corner of College Avenue

From the Encyclopedia of Cleveland History:

The congregation of SS. Peter and Paul Church was formed when Ukrainian Byzantine Rite Catholics from Galicia withdrew from St. John the Baptist Byzantine Rite Cathedral over nationality differences. The parish was founded in 1902 and a church built in 1910 at W. 7th and College streets in Tremont near a large Ukrainian settlement. Rev. Wolodymyr Dowhowycz was the first pastor. The church, on a sloping site, was built in the Byzantine style of yellow brick and featured a single central tower topped by an onion dome. The architect was Stephen Paliwoda.  The Eastern cross is used and the interior of the church is laid out in traditional Eastern Orthodox form.  Look for statues of St. Vladimir and St. Olga.  The ceiling is decorated with an icon of the Holy Mother surrounded by Ukrainians in traditional dress.  The most obvious Orthodox influence is the icon screen or iconostas in the sanctuary of the church.  Stained glass windows commemorating the Millennium of Ukrainian Christianity were added in 1978.

The church took an active role in the community, sponsoring drama productions, organizing literacy drives for adults, and conducting Ukrainian language classes. In 1943 the church was renovated and redecorated, including the addition of a set of murals depicting scenes in the life of Christ. Rapid growth took place after World War II, under the pastorate of Rev. Dmytro Gresko. In 1947 an all-day parish school was started on State Rd. in Parma, the first parish school for Ukrainian Catholics in the Diocese. A new convent was built in 1953. In 195657 major renovations to the interior and exterior of the church took place. On the exterior, the onion dome was converted to a bell tower and the steps were reworked. SS. Peter and Paul is considered the mother church of 3 parishes: St. Mary's in Solon (originally on Kinsman), St. Josaphat's in Parma, and St. Andrews in Parma. The church retained its Ukrainian identity in the 1990s, and in 1995 had a membership of 150 families.

St. Andrews in Parma celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2007.  It is part of the St. Josaphat Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Parma and was consecrated on May 28, 1967.  St. Andrew’s actually began with the mother church, SS. Peter & Paul in Cleveland.  With the growth of the church after World War II, it was decided to build a new church on Hoertz Road in Parma.  St. Andrew’s was a mission parish of SS. Peter & Paul.  In 1972 it became a separate parish.  St. Andrews is at 7700 Hoertz Road, Parma.

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RUSSIANS. Cleveland's Great Russian community has never been very large. Even in the 1980s, it was difficult to accurately estimate the number of Great Russians in the area, because many ethnic groups, such as the Belarusians and Carpatho-Russians, have derived from regions under the control of Tsarist Russia or the Soviet Union and have thus been enumerated as Russians or are popularly considered Russians by the general populace. Even the city's preeminent "Russian" symbol, St. Theodosius Russian Orthodox Cathedral, was built not by Great Russians but by Carpatho-Russians. Indeed, in the 1980s all of the Russian Orthodox churches in the region had mixed congregations that probably included Great Russians. Great Russians began arriving in the city in small numbers during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Those who came before World War I were largely political refugees, often of a radical bent, who were at odds with the tsarist government. Following the Russian Revolution of 1917, the nature of Russian immigration to Cleveland reversed entirely as former supporters of the tsar came to constitute the major portion of the local Great Russian immigration. Even with the impetus of the revolution, the city's Russian community is estimated to have consisted of only 5,000 persons at most by 1932.

No real Great Russian neighborhood evolved in Cleveland, although a small community could be found near E. 30th and Woodland Ave. by 1912. Its focal point was the radical Russian Workingman's Club. The tendency of the Russians to scatter throughout the community was strengthened by the nature of the post revolutionary immigrants, who tended to be skilled and highly literate and therefore able to assume employment and residence in various sections of the city. Organizations within the new group of immigrants were few. Some did gather at Hiram House social settlement. A Russian Circle was begun at the Intl. Institute of the YWCA in the 1930s; the 64 Russians enrolled at the YWCA lived in areas as diverse as Lakewood, Parma, and Cleveland Heights. In the 1930s, the city did have a branch of the liberal national organization the Russians Consolidated Union of Mutual Aid. Several local organizations started by the Soviet Union in Cleveland during the 1930s, including the Friends of the Soviet Union at E. 55th and Euclid and the Russian American Institute in the Erie Bldg., may have appeared Russian to the general onlooker, but they failed to garner any membership from the local Russian community. Instead, they, like the radical Ukrainian Labor Temple in the Tremont area, tended to attract American radicals or those from ethnic groups such as the Hungarians and Ukrainians. Given the difficulty of emigration from the Soviet Union, Cleveland's Great Russian population received little replenishment until the 1970s, when, by virtue of international pressure and agreements between the USSR and U.S., a number of Russian Jews migrated to the U.S. and to Cleveland. Many of them took up residence in the Jewish community of Cleveland Hts. and, because of their numbers and language, formed what could be considered a Russian-speaking community, with much of its activity centered in the Coventry Village Business District. After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, a renewed immigration began from all areas of the former communist state. This led to an increased flow of Russians of all faiths, Jewish, Orthodox, and Protestant, to cities such as Cleveland. As of this writing, the nature of the Russian population of Cleveland continues to evolve and that population is now larger than at any time in the city's past. Over 1,300 people of Russian birth lived in Cleveland and Cleveland Heights in 1990 while over 30,000 local residents claimed Russian as their primary ancestry in the census of that year.

Catholic Universe 9/6/1912:

SS. Peter and Paul's Ruthenian Church on the West Side

Leader among the congregations which are affiliated with Rome, but which use the separate and authorized Ruthenian form of service - have fine property with good parochial residence and church which was dedicated this summer - Father Dobrotwor a leader who is carrying his people forward splendidly.

In all probability the most widely known of the churches in the city of Cleveland which celebrate the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass in other than the Latin rite, is that under the patronage of SS Peter and Paul, located at West 7th St. and College Ave.  It was dedicated a few weeks ago.  The occasion was a memorable one, the Rt. Rev. Stephen Soter Ortynsky, D.D. Bishop of the Catholic Ruthenians in the U.S., was here as the officiating prelate.  The pastor, Rev. Demetrius Dobrotwor has been in Cleveland for a little more than a year.  The Ruthenian Catholics are an entirely separate division of the Church from the Greek Uniats, although their service is more closely knit in form to the Greek Uniat than the Latin rite.  SS Peter and Paul is a young parish, having scarcely half a decade to its chronological credit.  Father Dobrotwor succeeded a former pastor, Rev. Vladimir Dovhovych, now of Buffalo, just one year ago yesterday, the 5th of September, 1911.  The site of the property of the parish is a most commanding one, it occupying a corner with a long depth which commands a view of that whole section of the city.  The church fronts on College Avenue.  It is of yellow brick, containing the basement, which is used for school purposes and for meetings.  The second story is the church and is nicely outfitted with a good alter, splendid furnishings for the Divine Service, good pews, a good organ and all the other detail of a church interior. 

This church was built in 1910 and is a Catholic church of the Byzantine Rite, united with the Holy See in Rome.  The Old Slavonic language is used in the Mass. 

1902 - St. Peters and St. Pauls (RUTHENIAN) - College at W. 7th, Rev. Wolodymyr Dowhowycz 

1913 - 1918 – St. Peters and St. Pauls - College at W. 7th, Rev. Demetrus Dobrotwar

1921 – St. Peters and St. Pauls (UKRANIAN) – College at W. 7th, Rev. Philemon Tarnovsky

1924 – Sts Peter and Paul’s – College at W. 7th, Rev. Eustachyj Sydoriak

1928 – Sts Peter and Paul’s – College at W. 7th, Rev. Leo Lewicky

1947 - Sts Peter and Paul's - College at W. 7th, Rev. Dymtro Kresko

STS. PETER AND PAUL

4750 Turney Road

1928 – Sts. Peter and Paul – 4750 Turney, Rev. John W. Solenski

ST. PHILIP NERI

8215 St. Clair Avenue

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

Large numbers of Catholic immigrants settling near Immaculate Conception, St. Aloysius and St. Thomas Aquinas Parishes.  Bishop Farrelly established St. Philip Neri on June 23, 1914.  They purchased land at St. Clair and E. 82nd and the first Mass was celebrated on July 4, 1914, by Father John P. Brennan.  A church was built there.  A second church was dedicated on June 24, 1950.

1914 - 1932 – St. Philip Neri – East Blvd. at St. Clair, Rev. John P. Brennan

1932 – 1943 – St. Philip Neri – East Blvd. at St. Clair, Rev. Kiernan Banks

1943 – 1960 – St. Philip Neri – East Blvd. at St. Clair, Rev. James Brennan

1960 – 1693 – St. Philip Neri – East Blvd. at St. Clair, Rev. Michael Ondik

1963 – 1969 – St. Philip Neri – East Blvd. at St. Clair, Rev. Leo Carlin

1969 – 1975 – St. Philip Neri – East Blvd. at St. Clair, Rev. William Eylar

1975 – 1990 – St. Philip Neri – East Blvd. at St. Clair, Rev. Thomas Gallagher

1990 – 1995 – St. Philip Neri – East Blvd. at St. Clair, Rev. Frederick Krause

1995 - ???? – St. Philip Neri – East Blvd. at St. Clair, Rev. Gary Stakem

ST. PROKOP (BOHEMIAN)

3181 West 41st at Trent

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

Large numbers of Bohemians arrived in Cleveland between 1854 and 1870.  St. Wenceslaus was established on the east side to serve them.  As the community grew on the west side, St. Prokop was established in 1872 to serve them.  The first church was dedicated in 1874 and Rev. Joseph Koudelka was the first pastor.  Construction on the current church was begun in 1899. 

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1942:

What is now the largest Bohemian Catholic Church organization in Cleveland, and one of the largest in the United States, was started September 17, 1872.  The first building was a frame structure combining church, school and pastor’s quarters, which was occupied in 1874.  From this modest start there has grown a magnificent $92,000 church edifice dedicated in 1903 and consecrated in 1929; a fourteen-room brick and stone school building costing $80,000, dedicated in 1908; a stone parish house costing $20,000, finished the same year; and then the remodeling of the original combination building into a community center.  After Father Hynek had succeeded in starting the parish work, he was succeeded in 1875 by Rev. Joseph Koudelka.  He left in 1882 and was succeeded by Rev. Francis A. Antl, who was removed after a year’s service.  During the pastorate of Rev. Stephen Furdek, the church council openly rebelled over this decision and in 1884, the Bishop closed the church under an interdict which kept it closed until August 1885.  The present church edifice was started during the pastorate of Rev. Wenceslaus Panuska, who served from 1896 to 1901.  The church was consecrated October 2, 1929. 

THIS CHURCH WAS ONE OF THOSE CLOSED IN THE CLEVELAND DIOCESE DOWNSIZING.  ITS FINAL MASS WAS ON AUGUST 31, 2009.

The final Mass is held at St. Procop in Cleveland: “A day of sadness, a day of anger for some” By Marty Sterpka, August 31, 2009

Catholics from across Greater Cleveland packed St. Procop Catholic Church on Cleveland's near West Side Sunday to mourn the death of a parish founded 137 years ago.  On a gloomy, rainy day, worshippers streamed into the giant, 110-year-old sandstone edifice on West 41st Street for the final Mass said by Bishop Richard Lennon, who ordered the church closed earlier this year.  Lennon, who is closing 50 parishes across the Cleveland Catholic Diocese, came to St. Procop's under police security, ignoring about 40 protesters who stood outside holding signs.  Inside, a standing-room-only crowd filled pews, side aisles, the vestibule and the choir loft. Many clutched tissues to wipe away tears. 

"Today is a special day, a day of sadness, a day of wonderment and a day of anger for some," Lennon said in his sermon. "This is a story of God and men and women working together for over a century. May we rely on God in these days of darkness and sadness."  A choir, accompanied by organ, trumpets, guitars and drums, filled the majestic Byzantine Romanesque structure, rich in sacred art, stained-glass windows and glorious ceiling medallions. The old church, with paint peeling from its walls and ceiling, hadn't seen such liveliness in decades.  "It's sad," said Gil Bachna of Fairview Park, who was baptized in the church 72 years ago. "But it just doesn't have the people. Not as many Catholics go to church like they used to."  Lennon, who has cited shortages of priests and a drop in collection-basket cash as reasons for closing parishes, has targeted mostly inner-city churches. Most of the 750,000 Catholics in the eight-county diocese live in the suburbs.  St. Procop's, once a bustling parish filled with Czechs who lived in the neighborhood, was down to about 370 parishioners.  In recent years, it didn't have a full-time priest. It was run by Sister Annette Amendolia, who on Sunday introduced former St. Procop's pastors to standing ovations.  Following the Mass, worshippers streamed into a parish social hall for food and memories. Lennon did not attend.  During the service, uniformed Cleveland police officers watched over the bishop. One followed him down the main aisle during the final procession. Then, flanked by officers, Lennon left the church and walked in the rain through a back parking lot, ignoring the protest signs -- "Dis-Membering in Process," "This is Not God's Plan," "Keep Our Church Open."  Protesters Marta Fordos of Fairview Park and Hanna Gereby of Cleveland ran after Lennon, catching up to him. "I'm sorry you have to ruin our churches," snapped Fordos. "Judas!"  Lennon, his eyes downcast, did not respond, continuing his wet march toward his car.

1872 – 1875 – St. Prokop – Rev. Anthony Hynek

1875 - 1882 – St. Prokop – Burton near Newark, Rev. Joseph M. Koudelka

1882 – 1883 – St. Prokop – Burton near Newark, Rev. Francis Antl

1885 – 1893 – St. Prokop – Burton near Clark, Rev. Anthony Vlcek

1893 - 1896 – St. Prokop – Burton near Clark, Rev. Vaclav Koerner

1896 - 1901 – St. Prokop – Burton at Trent, Rev. Wenceslas Panuska

1901 - 1906 – St. Prokop – Burton at Trent, Rev. Peter M. Cerveny

1907 - 1942 – St. Prokop – W. 41st at Trent, Rev. Peter Cerveny

1943 – 1949 – St. Prokop – W. 41st at Trent, Rev. John Becka

1949 – 1973 – St. Prokop – W. 41st at Trent, Rev. Wenceslaus Uhlir

1973 – 1987 – St. Prokop – W. 41st at Trent, Rev. James Vesely

1987 - ???? – St. Prokop – W. 41st at Trent, Rev. Mark Peyton

ST. ROCCO (ITALIAN)

3205 Fulton Road

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

St. Rocco was the first Italian-Catholic parish on the west side.  In 1915, immigrants from Bari, Italy, met and erected a humble independent church on Trent Avenue in the Clark-Fulton neighborhood.  In 1922, the diocese realized that this church existed and the Bishop invited the priest, Father Sante Gattuso to assume leadership of St. Rocco Parish in 1924.  Land was purchased on Fulton Avenue and a new church was built.  It was dedicated in 1952.

1922 – 1923 – St. Rocco – 2538 Trent, Rev. DeMaria

1923 – 1924 – St. Rocco – 2538 Trent, Rev. John Davidson

1924 - 1956 – St. Rocco – 2538 Trent, Rev. Sante Gattuso

1956 - 1972 – Rev. Andrew Costanzo

1972 – ???? - Rev. Michael Contardi

ST. ROSE OF LIMA

11411 Detroit

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

The first mass for St. Rose of Lima was held on December 25, 1899 in an improvised chapel in the Marshall family home.  Father Ignatius J. Wonderly was the first pastor.  A church was soon built at the corner of Detroit Avenue and West 116th Street.  A cornerstone was laid for the second church on June 26, 1927.  The upper church was dedicated on February 20, 1957. 

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1941

St. Rose’s parish was established to serve the Catholic families living in the western section of Cleveland, the eastern limits of Lakewood.  It had its official beginning on November 27, 1899.  On December 25, 1899, the first mass was celebrated in an improvised chapel in the Marshall home, and on January 14, 1900 the parish was canonically established.  Rev. Ignatius J. Wonderly was first pastor.  A new frame church was erected at the southeast corner of Detroit Avenue at West 116th Street.  Mass was said for the first time in the new church on July 29, 1900 and the next September the parish school was opened in the Marshall residence.  In October of 1908, Rev. John J. Lillis was appointed assistant to Father Wonderly, whose death in September 1909 brought to the parish the Rev. James J. Steward.  Father Stewart died in December 1924, and on February 1, 1925, the present pastor, the Rev. Patrick J. O’Connell was installed.  A new sisters’ home was built in 1926 and the priests’ home was moved from its original location to a site further west on Detroit to make room for the new church.  On June 26, 1927 the cornerstone was laid.  The depression the next year halted the building program. 

In 2010, this church was ordered to merge with SS. Cyril and Methodius and the newly merged parish would be located at SS. Cyril and Methodius in Lakewood.

THE FINAL MASS AT ST. ROSE OF LIMA WAS MARCH 14, 2010.

1899 - 1906 – St. Rose of Lima – Detroit at Fruitland, Rev. Ignatius Wonderly

1906 - 1909 – St. Rose of Lima – Detroit at W. 116th, Rev. Ignatius Wonderly

1909 - 1924 – St. Rose of Lima – Detroit at W. 116th, Rev. Jas. Stewart

1925 - 1950 – St. Rose of Lima – Detroit at W. 116th, Rev. Patrick O’Connell

1950 – 1967 – St. Rose of Lima – Detroit at W. 116th, Rev. Edmund Kirby

1968 – 1974 – St. Rose of Lima – Detroit at W. 116th, Rev. Thomas Murphy

1975 - ???? – St. Rose of Lima – Detroit at W. 116th, Rev. James Viall

ST. STANISLAUS (POLISH)

3649 East 65th

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

As early as the late 1840’s, Polish immigrants began arriving in Cleveland, settling in the Czech community near Croton Street.  As new immigrants arrived, they moved to the area around the intersection of Tod Street (now E. 65th) and Fleet Avenue.  The first pastor of St. Stanislaus was Rev. Victor Zareczny.  In 1881, the church was erected at the corner of Baxter and Tod Streets.  Ground was broken for another church in 1886.  It was dedicated the new St. Stanislaus Church in 1891.

1873 – 1877 – St. Stanislaus – Forman near Tod, Rev. Victor Zareczny

1877 – 1878 – St. Stanislaus – Forman near Tod, Rev. F.A. Marshall

1879 - 1883 – St. Stanislaus – Forman near Tod, Rev. Wolfgangus Janietz

1883 - 1892 – St. Stanislaus – Baxter near Tod, Rev. Anton F. Kolaszewski

1892 - 1905 – St. Stanislaus – Forman near Tod, Rev. Benedict Rosinski

1906 - 1911 – St. Stanislaus – Forman near E. 65th, Rev. Theobald Kalamaja

1911 - 1912 – St. Stanislaus – Forman near E. 65th, Rev. Damian Koziolek

1912 - 1923 – St. Stanislaus – Forman near E. 65th, Rev. Wenceslaus Krzycki

1924 - 1936 – St. Stanislaus – Forman near E. 65th, Rev. Theobald Kalamaja

1936 – 1939 – St. Stanislaus – Forman near E. 65th, Rev. Sigismund Masalski

1939 – 1941 – St. Stanislaus – Forman near E. 65th, Rev. Raymond Micek

1941 - 1945 – St. Stanislaus – Forman near E. 65th, Rev. Thaddeus Woloszyk

1945 – 1950 – St. Stanislaus – Forman near E. 65th, Rev. Vitalis Bartkowiak

1945 – 1947 – St. Stanislaus – Forman near E. 65th, Rev. Theobald Kalamaja

1950 – 1954 – St. Stanislaus – Forman near E. 65th, Rev. Casimir Wisniewski

1954 – 1963 – St. Stanislaus – Forman near E. 65th, Rev. Agnellus Sobolewski

1963 – 1973 – St. Stanislaus – Forman near E. 65th, Rev. Clarence Korgie

1993 – St. Stanislaus – Forman near E. 65th, Rev. William Gulas

ST. STEPHEN’S (GERMAN)

1930 West 54th

From:  Jubilee Edition of Waechter und Anzeiger Newspaper 1902

St. Stephan’s Church is the strongest in numbers of the German Catholic congregations in Cleveland.  It is a daughter of the Assumption of Mary Church on Jersey Street, separated in 1869.  It received the district to the west of Harbor Street.  After the founding of St. Stephan’s, Pastor Stephan Falk had a two-story brick building erected in the middle of the land on which the present church stands, on Courtland across from Duke Street.  In its first floor there were schoolrooms, while in the upper story there was a church.  In April, 1870, Pastor Casimir Reichlin was consecrated priest.  A new church was soon necessary and the cornerstone was laid on September 7, 1873.  Work on the church wad delayed, but the congregation finally entered the church on July 2, 1876.  On November 20, 1881, the church was consecrated.  In 1889, the Sisters of Our Beloved Lady, who had served the school since 1874, received a lovely convent of brick.  In 1897 a new schoolhouse was built on Scott Street. 

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1942

Rev. Stephen Falk, pastor of St. Mary’s of the Assumption, was commissioned in 1869 to aid in organizing a new parish, St. Stephen’s, to serve those German families living in the west of Harbor (West 44th) Street.  A two-story church and school building was constructed the following year.  On May 1, 1870, Rev. Alexis Caron was appointed first pastor.  The cornerstone of the present church was laid in 1873, but the panic of 1873 delayed its dedication until November 20, 1881.  In 1897, an eight-room brick school went up and two years later a site was bought for a future high school.  In 1915 the erection of the new high school was begun.  In 1917, at the death of Father Reichlin, the present pastor, the Rev. Joseph Gerz, was appointed.

1869 - 1906 – St. Stephen – Courtland near Fulton, Rev. C. Reichlin

1908 - 1917 – St. Stephen – W. 54th near Lorain, Rev. C. Riechlin

1917 - 1928 – St. Stephen – W. 54th near Lorain, Rev. Joseph Gerz

ST. THOMAS AQUINAS (IRISH AND GERMAN)

9101 Superior Avenue or 1230 Ansel

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

St. Thomas Aquinas Parish was founded on June 26, 1898.  Rev. Thomas F. Mahon was the first pastor.  The cornerstone for this church was laid on July 26, 1903 and the church was blessed on July 2, 1905.  It was finally completed on May 30, 1923.  The Glenville area that held Saint Thomas Aquinas gradually changed to include many African-Americans.  When the riots of the 1960’s occurred, the St. Thomas Aquinas African-American community were victims, not rioters.  The shrinking of the parish population affected the parish.  The aging building developed problems and the church was condemned as structurally unsound.  The last Mass IN St. Thomas Aquinas Church was on October 12, 1975.  The parish continued to meet though in a multi-purpose building constructed by the Diocese.  Later, however, it was decided to close the parish and the last services were held on October 31, 1993.  Parishes founded from St. Thomas Aquinas are:  St. Philomena (1902), Pt. Philip Neri (1914), St. Aloysius (1902), St. Agatha (1945).

From: “Parishes of the Catholic Church, Diocese of Cleveland” by WPA 1942

Before the founding of St. Thomas Aquinas Church in 1898, the Catholic families of the sparsely populated northeast section of Cleveland had attended the Church of Immaculate Conception at Superior and East 41st Street.  Rev. Ignatius Horstmann authorized Monsignor T.P. Thorpe to select a suitable site for a new church and school.  Eight lots, four of which fronted on Wheelock Road near St. Clair were purchased in August, 1895.  The next few years of depression prevented any further steps towards organization of a new parish. On June 26, 1898, St. Thomas Aquinas Parish was founded.  Rev. Thomas F. Mahon was appointed first pastor.  During the first six weeks, services were held in St. Casimir’s schoolhouse on Pulaski Avenue.  In the meantime, Father Mahon found that conditions had changed since the property purchase of the years before, and concluded that a church on Superior Avenue would more conveniently serve his parishioners.  A $9,000 property at the corner of Superior and Ansel Road was purchased.  The brick church and school building were dedicated on November 15, 1898.  Rev. Albert Zemp was appointed first assistant in 1900.  The cornerstone of the present church was laid on July 26, 1903, and two years later, on July 2, 1905, the completed church was blessed.  Rev. John I. Koch, assistant to Monsignor Mahon, was appointed acting pastor upon the death of Monsignor Mahon on December 10, 1939 and held that office until December 15, 1940, when Rev. Thomas E. McKenney was appointed.

Today, St. Thomas Aquinas is located at 1230 Ansel, Phone 216-721-9002

1898 - 1939 – St. Thomas Aquinas – Superior near Ansel, Rev. Thomas F. Mahon

1939 – 1940 – St. Thomas Aquinas – Superior near Ansel, Rev. John I. Koch

1940 - ???? – St. Thomas Aquinas – Superior near Ansel, Rev. Thomas E. McKenney

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL

13400 Lorain Avenue

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

St. Vincent de Paul parish began in 1922.  A group of people living on the outskirts of Cleveland (beyond West 98th Street) petitioned to have a church established.  The church was established on April 17, 1922 and Father Michael Flanigan was the founding pastor.  A new church was built and ready for use on Christmas Eve, 1922.

1924 - 1963 – St. Vincent de Paul – 13442 Lorain, Rev. M.J. Flanigan

ST. VITUS (SLOVENIAN)

6019 Glass or 1110 Norwood

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

The area running from E. 24th to E. 87th would become the largest Slovenian settlement in the United States.  The founding pastor of St. Vitus was Rev. Vitus Hribar.  Property was purchased on Glass Avenue and Norwood Road.  The first services were held in St. Peter Church.  The first church was dedicated on November 4, 1894.  Today this church is located at 6019 Glass, Phone 216-361-1444

1893 - 1907 – St. Vitus – Norwood at Glass, Rev. Vitus Hribar

1908 - 1921 – St. Vitus – Norwood at Glass, Rev. Bartholomew Ponikvar

1921 - 1952 – St. Vitus – 1110 Norwood, Rev. B.J. Ponikvar

1952 – 1969 – St. Vitus – 1110 Norwood, Rev. Louis Baznik

1969 – 1975 – St. Vitus – 1110 Norwood, Rev. Rudolph Praznik

1975 - 1982 – St. Vitus – 1110 Norwood, Rev. Edward Pevec

1982 - ???? – St. Vitus – 1110 Norwood, Rev. Joseph Boznar

ST. WENCESLAUS (BOHEMIAN)

3715 Broadway Avenue

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

St. Wenceslaus was the first parish established to serve Bohemian Catholics in Cleveland.  Prior to 1867 services were held at St. Joseph’s, St. Peter’s, and St. Mary’s on the Flats.  In February 1867, a church site was purchased at the corner of Arch Street and Burwell (E. 35th Place), near Woodland Avenue.  Father Anthony Krasny was the first pastor.  The first Mass in the new church building was on December 22, 1867.  Later, it was clear that the parish needed a larger site, and land was purchased on E. 37th and Broadway in 1886.  Construction began in 1891 and the church was completed in 1899.  By the early 1920’s, many parishioners had moved away.  In the years after 1926 the parish continued to serve its parishioners, but the size dwindled.  Plans for building Interstate 77 encompassed the church and sealed its fate.  The last mass was celebrated on June 9, 1963.  The buildings were torn down in July, 1963. 

1867 - 1869 - St. Wenceslaus - Arch and Burwell Streets, Rev. Anthony Krasny

1869 - St. Wenceslaus - Arch and Burwell Streets, Rev. George Beranek 

1869-1873 – St. Wenceslaus – Arch and Burwell Streets, Rev. Wenceslaus Revis

1873 – 1906 – St. Wenceslaus – Arch and Burwell, Rev. Anthony Hynek

1908 – 1917 – St. Wenceslaus - E. 35th and Burwell, Rev. Anthony Hynek

1921 - 1924 – St. Wenceslaus – E. 35th at Burwell, Rev. Joseph Koudelka

1928 – St. Wenceslaus – Broadway at E. 37th, Rev. C.W. Dik

ST. WENDELIN (SLOVAK)

2281 Columbus Avenue

For several years prior to 1903 Slovak immigrants on the west and south sides attended nearby Catholic churches.  Recognizing language difficulties, Rev. Ignatius Horstmann, in May, 1903, established the parish of St. Wendelin.  It was not until the Rev. Joseph Koudelka, pastor of St. Michael's, became interested that plans for a church got under way.  A site at W. 25th St. and Columbus Road was purchased, the erection of the new frame church was begun, and December 6 of the same year it was opened for the first mass.  Two rooms in the parish house were converted into two class rooms and, In October, 1904, the school was opened with the Sisters of Notre Dame in charge.  In 1904 Rev. J.P. Kunes was appointed pastor.  Due to language difficulties, Father Kunes was replaced the following month by Rev. Thomas Wilk who was of Polish birth.  In November, 1904, another appointment brought Rev. Oldrich Zlamal.  A four-room school was built in 1905 to care for the increasing enrollment.  Father Zlamal purchased a large property on which four frame houses stood.  This purchase increased the parish debt somewhat.  Four year later, when Father Zlamal was appointed pastor of the SS Cyril and Methodius Church in Youngstown, the Rev. Augustin Tomasek took charge of the parish.  New parishioners from St. Martin's on Scovill were moving to the West side, so by 1909, it was necessary to open two more school rooms.  At that time an addition was built to the sisters' residence.  The church received its first assistant, the Rev. F.J. Dubosh, on September 9, 1916.  The church purchased a large property at the corner of Freeman Ave. and Columbus Road, which included two modern homes.  The plans for this property were never realized however, as the Cleveland Terminal Company wanted to use the tract as an approach to the new Union Station.  In May, 1924, the property was sold with the privilege of moving the two buildings to the original parish property.  A tract adjoining the site was then purchased and the two houses moved there were remodeled as a residence for the sisters and a parish home.  Ground was broken for the present combination church and school on November 23, 1924.  The modern two-story brick building, with stone trim, has a property frontage of 319 feet.  The school, with 12 classrooms and the club rooms in the basement, occupies the north portion of the building, while the church, with its main entrance in the west elevation, is in the southern section.  A modern parish hall and gymnasium are now housed in a two-story building which was erected in 1936. 

From:  "People of Faith" by Charles R. Kaczynski

St. Wendelin

After settling in Ohio City during the last decades of the nineteenth century, Slovak-Catholics celebrated Mass with a variety of area parishes.  Recognizing their language difficulties and their ethnic traditions, Bishop Ignatius F. Horstmann established St. Wendelin Parish on May 3, 1903.  Under the direction of Father Joseph M. Koudelka, pastor of St. Michael parish, the Slovak community purchased property at the corner of W. 25th St. and Columbus Road, on which it erected a wood-frame church.  On December 6, Father Koudelka joined the community in celebrating its first Mass.  The following March, the community welcomed its first pastor, Father J.P. Kunes, who served for only a month before turning over the parish's administration to Father Thomas Wilk.  By October, the community had converted two rooms in the parish house into classrooms, in which Sisters of Notre Dame began instructing the parish's children.  Seven months after his arrival, Father Wilk left St. Wendelin, being succeeded by Father Oldrich Zlamal.  Four years later, upon his assumption of pastoral duties at Ss. Cyril & Methodius in Youngstown, Father Zlamal left the St. Wendelin community in the competent hands of Father Augustin Tomasek.  For the next five decades, Father Tomasek led the parish through successive periods of prosperity and crisis.  By the 1920s, growing membership led the community to erect a new church-school.  During the next two decades, as they struggled with unemployment during the Depression, the parishioners of St. Wendelin Parish generously contributed to their church.  In 1943, the community celebrated the retirement of its debts.  Father Tomasek continued to administer to the parish until an illness and stroke forced him to retire in 1957.  For the next 6 years, Father Edward Stanko served as pastor.   His successor, Father John Kraynik, administered to the parish for the next ten years.  The 1970's were difficult years for the parishioners.  With its enrollment declining, Father Richard Ondreyka and teachers from the Ursuline Sisters supervised the merger of St. Wendelin School into the Urban Community School.  This mission of adjusting to changing conditions was assumed in 1977 by St. Wendelin Parish's current pastor, Father Jerome Lajack.  St. Wendelin Parish prepares for its ninety-fifth anniversary in 1998.

HISTORY OF ST. WENDELIN'S PARISH 1903-1943

Officially St. Wendelin's parish dates back to May 3, 1903, for it was on this day that Most Rev. Bishop Ignatius Horstman of Cleveland gave permission to organize this new Slovak parish.  Slovaks, coming directly from Europe, or those moving from other parts of the city to West Side, settled especially on Columbus, Franklin, River Streets, and the present W. 17, W. 18, and W. 19 St., and Lorain Avenue.  Another group settled on the South side.  These joined the parish later.  There were meetings in private homes, and in a hall situated at W. 25th St.  A financial campaign was started, and contributions were generously given.  It was through the intercession of Rev. Jos. Koudelka, then pastor of St. Michael's, that Bishop Horstman gave his approval to organize the new Slovak parish which was given the name, St. Wendelin. 

Some parishioners received information that Mr. Meckes had a property for sale on Columbus Rd., near W. 25th St.  This was two lots, 120' by 330' and on which was a brick building was purchased for $5,650.  The front part of this brick building was remodeled into a parish house and the back part into a school for two rooms.  The parish property was surrounded on one side by Phoenix Brewery and on the other side by a saloon.  A new wooden church and Sister's Home were built.  The church with inside furnishings was contracted for over $14,000.  Sisters' Home and the remodeling of the brick school building cost over $2,000.  The first Mass in the new wooden church was offered Dec. 6, 1903.  The income for the first year amounted to $7,560.  Pearl Street Bank loaned the parish $11,000.  Debt on the parish at the end of the year was $14,765.

School history starts October 1904 with two Sisters teaching in two classrooms.  During this time the parish was directed by Rev. Jos. M. Koudelka who also had a Mass at St. Wendelin's every Sunday, until March 1904 when Rev. Thomas Wilk was installed as the first resident pastor.  In November of 1904 Rev. O. Zlamal became the new pastor.  He was transferred in August 1908 to Youngstown.

In 1905 a new brick school had to be built.  The new school cost $7,570 and is used for club rooms and meetings.  That same year, Father Zlamal bought a neighboring lot 50' by 300' on which were 4 homes.  He paid $5,000.  In 1904 there were 4 sisters teaching in 4 classrooms.

In August 1908 Rev. Aug. Tomasek became the pastor.  At this time Slovaks from St. Martin's parish began to move to the West Side, so that by 1909 an addition had to be made to the Sisters Home, and to the School.  By this time there were 5 sisters teaching.  The greatest problem was the increase of school enrollment.  Even the church was crowded on special occasions.  This situation was relieved by having an extra Mass.  From 1915-1917 four masses were said on Sundays.  From 1917 - 1926 5 masses were said.

In 1911 six sisters were teaching.  In 1912 9 sisters were teaching.  In 1916 ten sisters and two lay teachers were employed.   In 1928 the enrollment exceeded a thousand pupils.  Extra classrooms were needed.  Every building on the premises which had been purchased by Rev. Zlamal was put into use.  The building adjoining the new hall on the grounds was the only edifice that had been constructed chiefly for school purposes.  In 1912 two more classrooms were annexed to the brick house.  In rapid succession, two rooms in the parish house and two in the vacated Sisters' home (after they had transferred their residence to Freeman Ave.), were also remodeled to provide classrooms. 

In 1916 no young Slovak priests were available in the Diocese of Cleveland.  In 1912, the Franciscan Fathers from their monastery on Woodland Ave. gave their assistance on Sundays and Feast days.  Later Rev. J. Svozil supplanted them until the years 1917 - 1926 when Rev. S.A. Blackmore supplied the needed aid.

With Rev. Francis J. Dubosh acting as first assistant, from 1916 - 1917, others followed in quick succession; namely

Rev. John Frena, Rev. J. Krispinsky, Rev. Begalla, Rev. P. Rysanek, Rev. John Fecko, Rev. Jos. Bresnyak, Rev. Andrew Hudak, Rev. S. Marjenin, and the present assistants, Rev. Geo. Lawrence and Rev. Stephen J. Blasko.  Some of the forenamed assistants remained at the parish for only a short duration. 

It soon seemed evident that the land property purchased by Rev. J.M. Koudelka in 1903 and Rev. Zlamal in 1906, totaling 170 x 330 feet, was insufficient for future parish buildings.  This necessitated the purchase of additional grounds.  Two factions arose:  one side favoring the purchase of neighboring property on the corner of Wiley and Columbus Rd, the other side desiring the purchase of grounds at a new location on the corner of Freeman and Columbus Rd.  The desires of the latter were realized when the new piece of land 181 x 169' with four homes was purchased.  Two of the larger homes became the present pastors' and Sister's residences.  The other homes were rented to tenants.

On this newly selected site the new church and school were to be erected.  The years that followed were unsettled years, work was slack, material expensive, and lastly rumors were being spread that the newly acquired site would become the purchased property of Cleveland Union Terminal Company for the erecting of the new Union Depot.  The rumor became a reality in 1924, when a special meeting held at the Cleveland Hotel attended by the Van Sweringen Bros., Mr. Barnett, president of the Nickel Plate R.R., Rev. Bishop Jos. Schrembs, Msgr. Jos. J. Smith and Rev. Augustine Tomasek.  The parish property on Freeman was sold for $75,000.

At the beginning of the year 1924, the parish had on deposit $56,956 of the $75,000 received for the Freeman property.  The remainder was used to purchase the land on which the new church and schoolhouse now stand.  This property measured 149 ' x 189' on one side and 330' on the other.  The parishioners were eager to begin the construction of the new combination building.  In the meantime, the pastor's and Sisters' homes were moved to the present site.  The new school and church, planned by architect William Jansen, was begun in 1924.  The cornerstone was blessed on March 26, 1925.  The construction of these new edifices and the services of the architect amounted to over $240,000.  In 1925 when the building was completed, the parish debt was $110,000.  It was decreased rapidly, so that by 1936 the debt was only $15,000.  That year the parish bought from Greif Bros., for $1,000 a lot which is near the Sisters' Home.  In 1937 the parish bought a lot and a home on Willey Ave. for $1,500.

By 1936 there was a need for a new hall.  The old church, which was converted into a hall, began to disintegrate.  After much deliberation, it was decided to build a new, modern parish hall.  In the fall of 1936, the building of the present Parish Hall was begun and was blessed Sept. 26, 1937.  There are two halls.  The lower is a gymnasium, and the upper an Auditorium.  The total cost was $73,000.   All debt was paid completely by July 3, 1943, which means that St. Wendelin's parish since that date has no debts.

The enrollment in our school in 1942 is 464 children, divided into 12 classrooms, taught by 12 Sisters of Notre Dame.  Our parish has given to the Church 11 priests, one Franciscan brother, 35 nuns.  Thus far 674 young people of our parish are serving in the United States Armed Forces. 

HISTORY FOR THE 75th ANNIVERSARY, 1978 (continuing the story from the 40th Anniversary above)

On Dec. 4, 1953, the celebration of the 50th anniversary of St. Wendelin Parish took place.  The pastor was Msgr. Tomasek.  On Feb. 12, 1953, Monsignor Tomasek suffered a stroke and four years later in Sept. 1957 he retired.  He was replaced by Father Edward Stanko.  He died suddenly on Sept. 22, 1963.  Monsignor Tomasek met his eternal reward on Nov. 23, 1964.

After the death of Father Stanko, Father John Kraynik came to St. Wendelin’s.  He arrived November 10, 1963.  Among the various events that occurred during his Pastorate one of the most historical was the formation of St. Wendelin School of Continuous Progress at which the Sisters of Notre Dame continued to serve until they were taken from our school in August 1973.  This ended an era of 70 years in the history of St. Wendelin School.

In Sept. 1973 four Jesuit Fathers moved into the Convent and called it "Faber House".  They conducted training for their young men interested in the Jesuit Order.

The 60th Anniversary was held on May 17, 1964.  The parish was changing.  Bishop Clarence Issermann realized that Father Kraynik needed help.  Father Francis X. Budovic came to help.  He came on January 10, 1972 and is still serving today.  Father Kraynik's ill health forced him to retire on November 15, 1973.  Father Richard Ondreyka succeeded Father Kraynik.  It was during his pastorate that the school closed on May 28, 1976 as St. Wendelin School and reopened in September 1976 as part of Urban Community School.  Our building provides classrooms for Jr. High and Primary grades while St. Malachi and St. Patrick took care of the intermediate grades.

Father Ondreyka stayed at St. Wendelin until April 15, 1977 when he was transferred to Lakewood.  After two months of waiting for a new Pastor, Father Jerome M. Lajack, who at 37 became the youngest Pastor in the Diocese.  He arrived June 15, 1977.  Father Lajak is making preparations for a grand celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the parish. 

A CONTINUING HISTORY - 90th ANNIVERSARY

Father Lajack was the driving force behind the celebrations which marked our 80th, 85th, and now our 90th Anniversary.   He oversaw the organization of our Parish Council in 1985 and continues guiding the activities of Parish Council today.  It is through Father Lajack's special social events, like the Summer Social, the Holiday Boutique, the Polka Mass and Dinner Dance, and the Holy Saturday Reception, that we all come together.  Father Lajack too steps to channel the generous financial support of our parishioners to area social agencies, like the West Side Catholic Center, the West Side Ecumenical Ministry, Templum House, and Providence House. 

A CONTINUING HISTORY - 100TH ANNIVERSARY

In 1996, St. Wendelin was a stop on the diocesan tour of churches in Cleveland.  In 1999, a major, three-year long building repair effort began.  All of the parish buildings were checked for defects and tuck-pointing was instituted.  The project took several years to complete.  As the new century dawned, the parish saw wonderful change and growth as programs blossomed.  A Children's Choir and Liturgy of the Word program began.  A summer Bible school was started.  A sacramental program helped children prepare for the reception of the sacraments.  A celebration was held to mark the 25th anniversary of Father Lajack's pastorate.

In the autumn of 2002, parish leaders declared a Year of Jubilee to mark the parish's centennial celebration.  Street banners were produced.  An anniversary calendar provided a thematic guide for every month of the celebration.  A large, 100-year-old statue of St. Wendelin, which had been left in storage for many years, was taken out.  The statue was repaired, and a new niche for the statue was carved inside the church where a confessional once stood.  The bell, which had been removed from the belfry, was reconditioned and a new yoke was located.  A frame was built which allowed the bell to be portable. 

THIS CHURCH WAS ONE OF THOSE CLOSED IN THE CLEVELAND DIOCESE DOWNSIZING.  ITS FINAL MASS WAS ON MAY 23, 2010.  IT APPEALED THE CLOSURE AND THE APPEAL WAS GRANTED BY THE VATICAN ON MARCH 1, 2012.   ST. WENDELIN REOPENED ITS DOORS ON JULY 29, 2012, WITH REV. ROBERT KROPAC BEING ASSIGNED THERE. 

1903 - 1904 - St. Wendelin - Columbus near Pearl, Rev. Joseph Koudelka

1904 - St. Wendelin - Columbus near Pearl, Rev. J.P. Kunes

1904 - 1905 - St. Wendelin - Columbus near Pearl, Rev. Thomas Wilk 

1905 – St. Wendelin – Columbus near Pearl, Rev. Udalrich Zlamal

1908 - 1909 – St. Wendelin – 2275 Columbus Rd., Rev. Udalrich Zlamal

1909 - 1957 – St. Wendelin – 2281 Columbus Rd., Rev. Augustin Tomasek

1918 – St. Wendelin – 2281 Columbus, Rev. F.J. Dubosh

1957 - 1963 - St. Wendelin - 2281 Columbus, Rev. Edward Stanko

1963 - 1973 - St. Wendelin - 2281 Columbus, Rev. John Kraynik

1974 - St. Wendelin - 2281 Columbus, Rev. Richard Ondreyka

1977 - 2006 - St. Wendelin - 2281 Columbus, Rev. Jerome Lajack

2012 - St. Wendelin - 2281 Columbus, Rev. Robert Kropac