Father Steve Flynn, pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Gates Mills, proudly pointed out the new improvements in the church during Bishop Edward Malesic’s visit on Feb. 1, which included Mass and blessing of the new baptismal font.
The bishop pointed out what he called the “striking new crucifix,” a focal point in the newly renovated sanctuary. The large, San Damiano-style crucifix hangs over the altar. It is similar to the crucifix St. Francis prayed before in 1285 when he received the command to rebuild the Church. It also is a sign of Franciscan spirituality.
(See photo gallery above.)
Bishop Malesic told the faithful that the baptismal font is where they receive “the passport to the Eucharist and other sacraments.” He said we are “immersed into God’s mercy in the waters of baptism” and are changed into his adopted sons and daughters. "Our former way of life without God is put to death through baptism,” which he called a passport to salvation. “Jesus gives us the promise of resurrected life … Saints are in the process of being made in this baptismal font,” he added.
“Happiness comes when we allow God to fill the empty spaces in our hearts,” the bishop said, noting that could be why the poor find happiness in small things. “They depend on God for everything … We are poor in spirit. Our poverty of spirit drives us to thirst for justice and to protect the dignity of every person’s life both before birth and to natural death.”
He said the Lord loves each of us because we are made in his image, even if we make mistakes in life. Reflecting on the Gospel and the day’s readings, he said the beatitudes tell us that God sustains us and our reward will be great in heaven. “So many people are unhappy because they don’t know God … The happiness Jesus describes in the beatitudes is blessed.”
The bishop also pointed out Pope Leo XIV declared 2026 as the Year of St. Francis, coinciding with the 800th anniversary of his death. It is an opportunity for the faithful “to rekindle their faith, strengthen their relationship with God and with the community of the Church.” The special year will be observed Jan. 10 through Jan. 10, 2027 across the globe.
Bishop Malesic also pointed out the large sculpture on the back wall of the church that depicts St. Francis and his ministry.
The faithful received special holy cards that included excerpts from the prayer used during the blessing of the new baptismal font.
“It has been a joy to prepare the rite of blessing the baptismal font,” Father Flynn said. “I wanted to give everyone a few lines to pray with as we consider the importance of our baptism into Christ.”
After Mass, the bishop greeted parishioners and posed for photos during a social with coffee and donuts.