St. Florian Shrine is newest addition to Queen of Heaven Parish grounds

About six months ago, Caleb Brooks, a Green High School sophomore, talked with Father David Durkee, pastor of Queen of Heaven Parish in Uniontown, about the possibility of building a shrine to St. Florian, the patron saint of first responders, on the parish grounds.

The project was part of the requirements for him to achieve Scout America’s Eagle Scout rank. On July 11-12,  Caleb, 15, and a work party group of about 20 Queen of Heaven Troop 334 scouts, began the project.

Caleb’s dad, Eric Brooks, scoutmaster of Troop 334, is also a lieutenant with the Stow Fire Department. Brooks and his fellow firefighters assisted with the project, which got the stamp of approval from Father Durkee. He identified a spot for the new shrine along the parish’s walk with the  saints. The location is near the sidewalk for the Way of the Cross, which was a previous  Eagle Scout project.

“I decided to make my project a shrine to Saint Florian for three reasons. One was the desire to honor the first responders who protect us such as firefighters, who are a key part of a community.  They protect people from fires which are disasters that can result in the loss of lives,” Caleb said, 

“Another reason is that I want to honor my dad who is a lieutenant with the Stow Fire Department.  And finally, I’m interested in a career as a firefighter/paramedic. I want to be the person who is there for someone when they are having their worst day,” he added.

The area for the shrine had to be built up as it sloped downward. The bottom of the slope was filled with rocks. Fill dirt and gravel surrounded by railroad ties were used to build up and level the ground.

Dr. Dah Yoho, plastic surgeon at Crystal Clinic and best friend to Caleb’s dad from their college days, gifted the housing and two plaques, including that of St. Florian.   

One of the benches was donated by a Queen of Heaven parishioner. The gravel also was donated.

In addition, Caleb’s parents, Stephanie and Eric Brooks, donated railroad ties, wooden posts for the plaques and other needed materials.

Father Durkee had signage added so the new shrine blends in with the others on the parish grounds. He also added underground low-voltage wiring so the shrine can be seen at night.

The master plan and layout of this spiritual retreat on the nearly 17 acres on the Queen of Heaven Church grounds has been developed over time by the many Eagle Scouts and other projects suggested by Father Durkee, who also was an Eagle Scout.

“These projects were built for all to experience peace, joy and happiness on holy ground and to provide a refuge, a quiet place to pray and to feel comforted,” Father Durkee added.