Bishop Edward Malesic traveled to SS. Robert and William School to celebrate the traditional end-of-year school Mass on May 15. Father John Betters, pastor, concelebrated the liturgy.
The celebration was special because it also marked the retirement of Martha Dodd, longtime and much-loved principal at the Euclid school. Students, their families, staff members, parishioners and Dodd’s family filled much of the spacious church. The Dodd family and special guests occupied a place of honor in the front pews.
“This is a bittersweet day. It’s joyful because we are celebrating Mrs. Dodd and her 40 years of service to Catholic education. But it’s also sad because this school is saying goodbye to her,” the bishop noted after taking his place at the altar. “It’s also sad because of the death of Euclid Police Officer Jacob Derbin,” he added. The 23-year-old Derbin, who joined the police force less than a year ago, was killed in the line of duty on May 11. The bishop said he was offering the day’s Mass for Dodd, Derbin and his family so that “they feel comfort knowing that we and others hold them up in prayer.”
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He told those attending the Mass that God is always ready to love them. “He wants you to be safe. He takes great delight in you,” he added, suggesting they spend time each day with Jesus in prayer.
The bishop also encouraged the students to build each other up, pointing out “the Gospel is the best anti-bullying program.” SS. Robert and William School is like a family, he said, and everyone wants the best for those at the school.
He reminded those at the Mass that Jesus is the truth and they should always appreciate the blessings they have received, especially those at SS. Robert and William. “Be sure to give your faith away. It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
Reflecting on the day’s readings, he noted that St. Paul was sad to be leaving the people with whom he had spent so much time, much like the students are say to be saying farewell to their beloved principal. She likely will come back from time to time to visit. “That’s what Christians do. They share their love. God’s love is shared with all of us. Children, as you’ve received great love, you should give great love. It is always better to give than to receive,” he repeated. “As God has loved you, you should love one another. There is no greater love than to lay down one’ life for a friend,” he said, reminding them of the sacrifice Jesus made.
After Mass, the group watched a short video with highlights of Dodd’s career as a teacher, assistant principal and principal at Catholic schools in Euclid. She served at St. Felicitas, St. John of the Cross and SS. Robert and William through the changes in the parishes over the years. Father Betters also noted Dodd’s entire career was spent at schools on one street: East 260th.
After the video, she was ushered to a seat of honor in front of the altar as representatives of each grade level and the staff presented a short tribute to Dodd, a rose and a gift from each grade. The entire school presented her with a platter created with small pieces of glass representing the school community so she could take a piece of them with her, Father Betters said.
Euclid Mayor Kristen Holzheimer Gail also praised Dodd for her many years of faithful ministry and service. “I am happy to be here to celebrate one of our great community partners,” she said. The mayor said when she was a student in Catholic schools, including the former Villa Angela Academy (now Villa Angel-St. Joseph High School in Cleveland’s Collinwood neighborhood), the teachers inspired her and helped her become the woman she is today. Dodd is doing that for her students – past and present.
Gail presented Dodd with a proclamation from the city of Euclid.
Frank O’Linn, superintendent of schools for the Diocese of Cleveland, also spoke fondly of Dodd.
“She’s seen some great challenges in Catholic education and met them head on. Her legacy and this great work will live on in the educators she mentored,” he said. “She is a trusted and treasured colleague,” he added, noting Dodd has served with great joy.
As the program concluded, the congregation sand “Happy Trails” to Dodd.
“We are doing God’s work and I am so very blessed for each and every one of you. Thank you, thank you, thank you,” Dodd said, fighting back tears.