When members of the diocesan Eucharistic Revival team and the Parish Life and Special Ministries staff planned a series of four ballpark Masses, they envisioned hundreds of people attending a joyful liturgy outside in a public space for all to see.
However, once again there was a wrinkle in the plans.
“The devil didn’t want us to do it,” said Father Damian Ference, vicar for evangelization and head of Parish Life and Special Ministries.”
(See photo gallery above.)
For the third time, it rained on ballpark Mass day. The first Mass was celebrated outside under a tent at Classic Park in Mentor. The second Mass was forced indoors at St. Agnes/Our Lady of Fatima Church, across the street from League Park, its intended venue.
The third Mass was to be at Mercy Health Stadium, home of the Crushers baseball team, in Avon. But once again, it rained so St. Joseph Church in Avon Lake welcomed about 800 people to its worship space on Aug. 14. Father Ference said the rain didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the faithful, who turned out in force despite the short notice about the change in plans.
Bishop Martin Amos, retired bishop of Davenport, Iowa and a son of the diocese, was the celebrant. Homilist was Father Vince Hawk, pastor of Holy Trinity and St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception parishes in Avon. About a dozen priests from nearby parishes concelebrated the liturgy.
A living rosary, coordinated by St. Raphael Parish in Bay Village, preceded the Mass and adoration and benediction followed the liturgy. The Menkhaus family provided the music and students from Elyria Catholic High School campus ministry assisted with the event. The Knights of Columbus Council 3269 provided an honor guard.
Father Hawk noted in his homily that most people don’t take time to reflect, something we all need. The Assumption provides an extraordinary opportunity to reflect, he said.
“There are many voices trying to proclaim the truth, but for us, there is only one way, one place – Christ Jesus. Often, we’re too busy and look for the easy way … but there is only one way, Jesus Christ. And when we take the time to do the work, wonderful things can happen,” Father Hawk said.
He recalled the day of his priestly ordination in 2000 when Bishop Anthony Pilla talked about a newspaper story related to the clergy sex abuse crisis in which Father Hawk had been quoted.
“A reporter asked me how I could become a priest now,” he said. “I said, ‘No one said it would be easy.’ Bishop Pilla said but it will be worthwhile. The truth is always worthwhile.”
That reflection and focus on the truth was apparent in Mary’s fiat. And our belief in her assumption – body and soul – into heaven gives a glimpse of the destiny awaiting us, Father Hawk said. “Remember that mystery and reflect on it.”
He also said each of us needs a revival to help us recognize the miracle happening in our midst in the Eucharist. “We need eyes of faith and to reflect on the life of the Church that we might recognize that truth in our lies and to be the people of God. While it may not always be easy, it will be worthwhile if we take the time to reflect on the gift of God.”
The fourth – and final – ballpark Mass is scheduled for 5 p.m. Sept. 10 at Brookside Park, 200 Brookside Drive, Ashland. Auxiliary Bishop emeritus Roger Gries, OSB will be the celebrant and Father Steve Moran, pastor of St. Mary Parish in Wooster, will be the homilist. The young adult softball league all-star game will precede Mass at 3 p.m. and a picnic-style meal will follow. Click here to register.