When the Diocese of Cleveland established St. Joseph Parish 75 years ago, Avon Lake was a growing township with a population of about 4,300. Established after World War II, there were many bungalows popping up to meet the housing demands of baby boomers. The community also included many farms, vineyards and lakeside cottages.
Father Ron Wearsch, St. Joseph pastor, said his own family was among those living in the area during the parish’s early years.
Today, Avon Lake is a city of nearly 26,000 and the parish is a bustling community with a large school and many active ministries.
They welcomed Bishop Edward Malesic on April 21 when he celebrated Mass, one event in a yearlong 75th anniversary commemoration. Father Carl Wernet was appointed the parish’s first pastor on April 13, 1949. Just a few weeks later – on May 1, 1949 – he celebrated the first Mass of the newly minted parish in the Avon Lake Theater.
“One of the most delightful deeds I enjoy as bishop involves traveling to every part of the diocese and visiting the parishes and faithful people who make this diocese what it is today – a place where the love of God shines forth for all to see,” Bishop Malesic told the congregation. “And so it is for the people of St. Joseph Parish here along the south shore of Lake Erie in the easternmost corner of Lorain County. I am absolutely delighted to be here with you this glorious morning.”
He noted the diocese grew tremendously under the guidance of the late Bishop (and later Archbishop) Edward Hoban, who served as its shepherd 1943-1966, during the last half of World War II and the post-war period of growth.
“Over the years, the resolute people of this parish worked hard, overcame great challenges and helped to grow this wonderful faith community. And here we are today, gathered to pray and rejoice for what has been and what will be. I am deeply grateful to your pastor, Father Ron, for the invitation to be here with you today to offer Mass and celebrate this landmark occasion.”
He also thanked the concelebrants, Father Dan Fickes, chaplain for St. John Medical Center in Westlake, and retired priest Father Jerome Lajack, as well as Deacon Keith Jenkins and retired Deacon Ken DeLuca who assisted at the liturgy.
The bishop noted this was not his first visit to St. Joseph. He had heard about the parish’s popular fish fry and decided to give it a try. He has a custom of visiting parishes to pray the Stations of the Cross and sample a Lenten meal on Fridays during Lent.
Although he doesn’t rate the fish fries, the bishop said St. Joseph’s was impressive, including Father Wearsch’s homemade tomato bisque soup. Father Wearsch said he enjoys feeding both the bodies and souls of his parishioners and guests.
In addition to the pastor, Bishop Malesic said it takes many people working together to make a parish a vibrant place, including clergy, consecrated religious and lay people.
“Thanks to all of you, everyone who had and continues to have any part of keeping this wonderful house of the Lord vibrant,” he said.
Reflecting on the day’s readings, the bishop noted the Fourth Sunday of Easter also is known a Good Shepherd Sunday. This year, World Day of Prayer for Vocations was being celebrated, a well.
A good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep, just as Jesus did for us when he died on the cross. He said we recognize our true shepherd, Jesus, when we think about the sacrifice he made to gather us, even death on the cross, and to protect us from the wolves – the evil ones who want to scatter the sheep.
The clergy help the bishop, the shepherd or leader of the diocese, to tend to the flock (the faithful). He said on April 13, seven men were ordained to the transitional diaconate, another step in their formation for the priesthood. One of the newly ordained, Deacon Chris Cotone, has been assigned to serve at St. Joseph Parish for the next year.
The bishop, a former organist and musician, also acknowledged the parish choir and musicians who added to the beauty of the liturgy.
“Through the intercession of St. Joseph, may God bless you for your faithfulness and dedication in worshiping him, teaching others about him and serving the needs of Avon Lake and surrounding communities,” he said.
After Mass, the bishop greeted parishioners and enjoyed brunch.
St. Joseph Parish is hosting the Eucharistic Miracles Display as part of its 75th anniversary celebration. The display can be viewed for free from noon to 7 p.m. through April 28.