411 Springfield Pike • Wyoming, OH 45215 • (513) 948–1218
Note: If anyone has history to add to this, bringing it into the 21st Century, please email wordwiz@fuse.net
A Retrospective
“I will call to mind the deeds of the Lord; yea, I will remember Thy wonders of old.” – Psalm 77:11
By Hope Nettleton
In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, many Irish and German immigrants who migrated westward from the east coast became spiritual forebears of the Catholics in a beautiful valley formerly inhabited by Indians. And there, in 1850, Fr. Joseph Fernading organized the first parish, Sts. Peter and Paul, in Reading (originally Voorheestown), and St. Clement in St. Bernard was the second. But church–going in those days was a hardship involving horse, wagon, buggy, or simply walking considerable distances in often inclement weather. Subsequently St. Gabriel Church in Glendale (1859) and St. Charles Borromeo's church–school–residence in Carthage (1869) made attendance less rigorous. Then in 1874, specifically for English–speaking Catholics, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart became a second Reading parish.
Paradoxically, what at 35 Worthington Avenue in Wyoming had been a Swedenborgian Church and later the residence of C.M. Peck, a non–Catholic, was where the prospect of St. James was conceived. This distinguished lawyer from Maryland was the descendant of a gentleman who had come to this country with Lord Baltimore. He had married a charming, devout Irish colleen, Mary McSharey, and in their employ were several equally devout Irish servants. But there was no Catholic Church nearby. Romantics are convinced that the birth of St. James parish is attributable to Mr. Peck's love for his irresistible, persuasive wife, memorable Mary McSharey.
Several still familiar names are among those recorded of persons attending an organizational meeting at the Peck home ... Farrel, Gudge, Russell, Reardon, Cusack, Comford, Hogan, Maloney, Westgerdes, Minor, Bracker, Puthoff, Costello, Gallagher, Fitzgerald, Shepherd, Ramsey, Higgins, Stoverman, Distler, Tierney, Gates, Fogelman, Hoffman, Hilling, Wilkie, and of course, Peck.
Later representing these strong–hearted, pious souls, Messrs. Costello, Fitzgerald and Peck visited the Venerable Vicar General of the Archdiocese, Fr. John Mackey, seeking approval of their goal. He then obtained from the Most Reverend Archbishop William Henry Elder "Request approved."
Crescent & Cooper
Because Burns Avenue and the historic Anthony Wayne Avenues were then major "highways" with many Catholics living between them, a plot owned by Mr. Worthington at Cooper and Crescent Avenues was purchased for $1,500. When the happy buyers agreed to the seller's stipulation that their church–to–be would serve only English speaking Catholics, the seller, obviously not wanting "foreigners running around his neck of the woods," even contributed $500 toward a building fund. Mr. Worthington is not to be judged harshly. His attitude reflected a bias prevalent at that unenlightened time, earlier manifest at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart in Reading. But it must be noted that several other Protestants also contributed to the building fund.
After blueprints and bids were submitted, a contract for construction was awarded to Ulland and Hoeper. The new church, to be located one block south of the interesting, old Woodruff Building (demolished in 1982) would cost $4750.
An excerpt from a 1914 letter written by Fr. Edward A. Ryan relates:
"St. James Parish, Wyoming, Hamilton Co., O. was organized in the fall of 1886 by the scholarly gentleman and zealous priest, Rev. Father Charles McCallion, then pastor of Sacred Heart Church, Reading, Ohio, to accommodate the English–speaking Catholics scattered throughout Wyoming, Lockland, Hartwell, Park Place, Woodlawn and Rensselarr (formerly Williamsdale). The church, a frame structure of English Gothic style, was dedicated in August 1887, and named St. James at the request of the Reverend Organizer. To the rear of the Church and forming one building with it was a two–story frame which together with the Church Steeple served as a residence for the pastor." Fr. Ryan's brief sentence regarding such a momentous occasion at the dedication of the first St. James Church needs amplification: It rained. However, assembled outside for preliminary blessings and speeches were: from Reading, Fr. August Fisher, pastor of Sts. Peter and Paul with his choir and Captain Huling's Knights of St. Paul; from Glendale, Fr. James Henry and members of the St. Joseph Benevolent Society with its president, Mr. Devaney; the Most Reverend Archbishop William Henry Elder and Fr. McCallion; an exhilarated crowd of parishioners; many supportive friends. Then as many as possible –– damp, joyous, prayerful — clustered inside for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass offered by Fr. Fisher. The Archbishop's complimentary sermon, like the visiting choir's singing, was music to the congregation's ears. After a subsequent dinner the dedication day ended with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. Alleluia!
Our founding fathers
Founding Father Fr. McCallion (ordained 1842) merits grateful remembrance. Born in Ireland in 1815, he emigrated to the United States when 18, and was then brought to Cincinnati from Maryland by Bishop Purcell. Only five years after St. James' dedication, while he was serving as chaplain at then Good Shepherd Convent atop North Bend Road, he was killed in a railway accident at Section Avenue in Hartwell. His interment in Carthage was a tearful occasion for the many faithful who had so loved this gentle man.
Briefly succeeding Fr. McCallion and his part–time assistant, Fr. Francis A. Wimsey, was Fr. John Cusack (ordained 1885), who was actually the first resident pastor, living in two little rear rooms. Fr. Cusack had arrived in December 1888, and only a few months later, in April 1889, he was replaced by Fr. John Singleton (ordained 1881).
Fr. Singleton is remembered for having organized the first St. James Choir, harmoniously comprising Messrs. William and Bernard Timberman, Frank Ramsey and son Frank, Richard Stoverman, Miles, Kate Hogan and Barbara Fiedler, with ubiquitous Mr. Peck and his Mary. Various parishioners remember past organists ~ Messrs. Elfers and Rotert, and Anna Weber and Mary Goddard, but none remember who before them was the first.
Ordained in 1877, Fr. Henry Brinkmeyer was pastor from 1890 until 1892, but in his short time he never wasted a minute. When he saw the little church already inadequate to house his flock, he supplied a surprising solution space–wise. The front of the church facing east was extended 18 ft., making the overall length of the building 67 ft. Center front, an added entrance vestibule projected forward, reducing the original number of steps to only a few which led directly to the public sidewalk. Inside, the pillars supporting the choir loft then rested on the church's original front foundation. Before and after photographs are a fascinating study, presenting an intriguing structural mystery. The upper, importantly decorated facade of the addition is identical to what it was when the church was first constructed. Was this facade removed, intact, and then later replaced on the more–forward front? Or was the original facade perfectly duplicated, new, on the extension?
Two tiny classrooms
But Fr. Brinkmeyer accomplished still more. A well–educated, industrious man, he engaged a lay person to teach in two rooms added to the south side of his living quarters, and even assumed teaching responsibilities himself.
When Fr. John Holthaus became pastor in July 1882, he faced the disturbing prospect of closing the little classrooms because of the 1893 financial panic.
However, with the arrival of revered, erudite Fr. Shee that same year, the situation brightened. Born in Cincinnati, educated at St. Xavier College, Mount St. Mary's Seminary in Baltimore, and the American College in Rome, he was ordained there by Cardinal Parocchi in 1888. Resolute in his commitment to Catholic education, he averted the tiny school's closing and arranged for two Notre Dame sisters to teach his 16 boys and 30 girls. Enrollment steadily increased. Two rooms of his little dwelling were forfeited to accommodate additional students. This led to very questionable sleeping arrangements. While his kitchen remained a kitchen, Fr. Shee was using the church attic as his bedroom and his housekeeper was sleeping in the belfry, without nightmares, one would hope.
When the visiting bishop saw these ludicrous arrangements he immediately ordered a habitable rectory to be built. This led to acquisition of Hosea property adjacently north of the church, fronting on Crescent Avenue, and here the new, red–brick, two–story, eight–room parochial residence was constructed. Finally ... space, heavenly comfort, blessed dreams. Praise the Lord! AND the Bishop! Ironically, when the new rectory was completed in 1900, it was a deserved haven for Fr. Shee only a short time, for in July of that same year he was transferred. But at the end of his seven memorable years at St. James he left behind the preface to the saga of some very special religious sisters.
Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur
No history of St. James, even an abbreviated one like this, can omit the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. A negligent chronicler of their long–lasting, far–reaching dedication to the education of the parish students would surely be haunted ad infinitum by Fr. Shee's ghost.
In 1839, Mother Superior Ignatius in Namur, Belgium, promised visiting Right Reverend John Baptist Purcell that she would send to Cincinnati the sisters he urgently requested. Promptly the next year eight forlorn, home–sick, terrified (they had heard of ferocious Indians, wild animals, the uncivilized West) but dutiful souls arrived in Cincinnati, with no place to call home. Kindly Sisters of Charity came to their rescue, accommodating them in what had been the Ruffner house at Third and Plum.
Later the courageous newcomers acquired the vacant 33–room Oliver Spence mansion on Sixth (current site of Procter and Gamble's national headquarters) and established the Notre Dame Convent and Academy for girls, with 12 grades and also a school for the poor. In the 1860s, this downtown boarding school moved to Columbia Avenue in Reading, and was incorporated as "Mount Notre Dame Young Ladies' Literary Institute," with 30 boarders in 12 grades.
It was from here that Sister Agnes Julia and novice Magdalen traveled back and forth every day (in a horse–drawn wagon covered for protection and privacy) to enlighten Fr. Shee's students. Rapport between the priest and these teachers was immediate. Fr. Shee was dedicated to Catholic Education and the Notre Dame sisters are dedicated to an Educational Apostolate (although they have been going far beyond their basic ministry in recent years). Additional sisters continuously taught in the late–built schoolhouse at Crescent–Cooper corner.
Meanwhile there was on Elm Avenue in Wyoming a large, empty house, worth $75,000, which had been deeded by the Armleder family to Right Reverend R. Marcellus Wagner, who in turn deeded it to the archdiocese. When Msgr. Wagner moved from the house in 1944, Fr. Walsh arranged for the Notre Dame sisters, who by then were teaching at St. James on Springfield Pike, to move into the empty house in 1945. But from there they faced the prospect of daily promenading several blocks back and forth to the Pike school –– to meetings to Mass, to Benediction (unless a priest could come to them), or resorting to hitch–hiking with auto–driving parishioners or their Armleder janitor.
After Fr. Shine came to St. James, he bought the nine sisters an $1800 black station wagon, a considerable improvement over earlier methods of transportation. Former students recall with nostalgic affection how, when they were young and impressionable, they loved to watch the sisters arrive at school. They say it was eerie to see the long, black, hearse–like vehicle slowly arriving to disgorge the nine black–covered figures.
Later, when the Richards' home (formerly the Bean residence) on Linden Lane was bought and became the new rectory, the Franklin's home (originally the Woodruff residence) on West Hill Lane which the priests had vacated was available as a convenient convent for the sisters. There they were finally ensconced after ten years spent inconveniently in the old "Armleder Convent," which was then turned over to Maryknoll.
These beloved sisters and their instructional pilgrimage of over 80 years through the lives of students, parents, and priests of this parish deserve more accounting than these pages permit. Habits, traditions, needs, requirements, and challenges changed incredibly during their years at St. James. But Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur are celebrated for their adaptability, ability, spirituality, loyalty, determination and equanimity, which is why today they are established all over these United States and the world. Many remain at their Provincial House atop the hill in Reading. But they no longer minister at St. James of the Valley.
New century, new school
Ordained in 1889, Fr. James A. Moore came to St. James in 1901. Although pastor for only two years, he was an able financier who worked determinedly to reduce debt incurred by necessary additions and improvements preceding his brief pastorate.
When Fr. John James Cunningham arrived in 1903, it was apparent that with steadily increasing enrollment the old frame classrooms were doomed. His later 1910 census report numbered 148 Catholic families in the parish, with 52 boys and 60 girls attending school. For nearly nine years this gentle, frail priest had worked diligently for a proper school building. And such it was, when ready for dedication April 17, 1911. A substantial, square, two–story buff–colored brick building, with stone trim, on the south side of the church, it contained four large classrooms on the first floor, with cloakrooms. On the second was a spacious auditorium with a 550–seat capacity, along with a stage and two dressing rooms. The basement housed two large playrooms, restrooms, and essential facilities.
With the love and help of his parishioners, Fr. Cunningham had completed his final earthly task. He died only a few months later. His parishioners wept.
Many parishioners still remember Fr. Edward A. Ryan (born 1865; ordained in 1896 by Archbishop Elder), pastor from 1912 through 1934. He had labored four years as a mission priest, an experience which taught him the meaning of deprivation, sacrifice, patience, and persistence. Returning as pastor to St. Mary's in Hyde Park, he was still impoverished, celebrating Holy Mass in a feed store. However, his administrative ability became obvious as he there laid the foundation for one of Cincinnati's finest parishes, and then later repeated this kind of success in Franklin, Ohio.
Coming to St. James, Fr. Ryan again encountered substantial debt and high hopes for a new church. And again his remarkable talent for discharging debt, restoring solvency, and financing major building programs succeeded. It took time, but progress was inexorable as pastor and parish began a series of money raising events.
In 1921, after signing agreements with neighboring pastors, Father defined St. James' boundaries: north to Woodlawn; up Grove Avenue to Winton; east to the Miami–Erie Canal; south to Parkway Avenue in Hartwell, extending from Anthony Wayne west to Springfield Pike, then from Ridgeway west to Winton Road.
In 1927, the Most Reverend Archbishop Moeller, after a canonical visit to St. James, recorded: "church too small; parish debt–free; reserve fund $16,500; bank balance $13,500; $5000 loan to St. Vincent de Paul Church; Father needing assistance because of declining health." Successive assistants were Frs. Harold Thornburn, Joseph Rolfes, and Edward Sims, Vicarius Adjutor to the last. Also in 1927, Fr. Rolfes won approval for the first–ever midnight Mass. And in 1928 innovative women became increasingly active organizationally and individually in support of their respected, ailing pastor, and their parish. They labored in the Married Ladies' Sodality, Young Ladies' Sodality, a new, active Parent–Teacher Association, and their accomplishments were many. The men and the youth added their vigor and enthusiasm to this surge – Fr. Ran, too, when he was able – and a phantasmagoria of fund–raising activities resulted. A major resource proved to be a weekly Bingo game that amazingly increased in remunerative popularity.
A Hosea plot of land adjacently north of the rectory had been purchased earlier as the site of the new church. However, when more attractive property (the Woodruff house, land, barn, cottage) became available, $50,000 was available for expediting the transaction in May 1929.
Fr. Ryan's health continued to deteriorate. A small man, but largely endowed with piety and dignity, impeccable in language, manner and vestment, always strict but fair, he died three weeks before Christmas a few years later and the parish mourned the legendary pastor they had loved for 22 years.
The arrived of Father Walsh
January 1935 brought a New Year and a new pastor. Fr. Leo M. Walsh (ordained in 1918) proved to be a mover and shaker. In 1937, a three–day Golden Anniversary celebration began with a Solemn Jubilee Field Mass on the site of the future St. James Church, with Msgr. Wagner delivering the sermon. The entire program was a religious one of remembrance and thanksgiving.
By 1939 the parish had a $40,000 building fund, $16,000 from congregational pledges, expected assets of $35,000 from Crescent Avenue's proposed sale, an astutely negotiated loan of $75,000. And Fr. Walsh had an able assistant, Fr. John P. O'Connor. Architect Edward J. Schulte was commissioned to submit blueprints for three buildings; a temporary auditorium–church, a school, and the ultimate church. The first two were to be completed by September 1940, and were to contain: a large foyer; four classrooms; office; temporary church; rest rooms and lavatory on the first floor. The second floor would contain four classrooms; library; upper part of the temporary church; choir balcony. A music–band room would be in the tower, and in the basement: playrooms; cafeteria; kitchen; lockers; storage; boiler room.
Ground–breaking ceremonies
Sunday, October 22, 1939, was the joyous, ground–breaking day. Formal, prayerful, sentimental ceremonies were held at Crescent Avenue. Then majorette Marie Hollmann and the St. James School Band, followed by the men of the congregation, paraded exuberantly, musically, up Wyoming Avenue to the new site. Waiting with wide smiles were Frs. Walsh, O'Connor, Rolfes, Murphy, Steinbricker, Brenner, Montanus. Judge Frank Bonham (former mayor) and then–mayor Earl Pruden addressed the parishioners and their supportive friends. After priests added congratulatory comments, the fun ritual began. Competitive bidding was animated. Finally Mrs. Fred Hollmann's $125 bid won for her the privilege of the initial dig, but she graciously handed her nephew, Frederick Hollmann, the gold shovel. Little Freddie, only four and a half, excavated very little ground, but tradition had been observed amid laughter and applause. Frank Westendorf and William McNamara had planned a festive afternoon many still remember.
By April 14, 1940, partial completion of the building permitted laying the cornerstone after Most Reverend Auxiliary Bishop George J. Rehring blessed it according to the Rituale Romanus. Fr. Arthur Froehle and Fr. Charles Murphy assisted at the formal ceremony, which was described for posterity on a beautiful parchment, guaranteed to endure for hundreds of years by donor James M. Brennan. Included with this in the cornerstone's copper box were: copies of the Catholic Telegraph–Register; three Cincinnati dailies; two Valley papers; the 1937 Golden Jubilee booklet; a parish monthly publication (the St. James New Courier); pictures of Pope Pius XII, Archbishop McNicholas, Bishop Rehring, and Fr. Walsh. Names of parishioners who had donated building stones, along with names of neighboring pastors, were added, and finally the customary miscellaneous coins.
Bishop Rehring reminded all present that Catholic schools are maintained to teach the principles upon which the Constitution is based ... that Catholic schoolchildren are taught patriotism as a virtue to defend and promote the established government and its institutions ... That "The right of the church to have its own schools is based upon the words of Christ, '... going, therefore teach ye all nations,' for in the schools the Church carries out a part of its Divine mission to teach the truth of Christ to the whole world."
The bishop's salute to the power and principles of the Constitution points to a striking coincidence. In this current year, 1987, both the St. James of the Valley Centennial and the United States Constitution Bicentennial are being observed and celebrated. It's a doubly meaningful year.
Fr. Walsh's words handwritten in permanent ink on the parchment follow:
"AD MAJOREM DEI GLORIAM ANNO DOMINI MXMXL. On this fourteenth day of April, in the year of our Lord, 1940, His Holiness, the Beloved Pius XII, now reigning as the Vicar of Christ and Head of His Church on earth; His Excellency, the Most Reverend Archbishop John T. McNicholas, being Ordinary of this Archdiocese; Honorable Franklin D. Roosevelt, being President of these United States; James G. Stewart, Mayor of Cincinnati; James E. Pruden, Mayor of Wyoming; Paul D. Morrow, Mayor of Lockland; the Reverend Leo M. Walsh, Pastor of St. James, and the Reverend John P. O'Connor being assistant pastor, this cornerstone was blessed and laid this Sunday afternoon by the Most Reverend Auxiliary Bishop Goerge J. Rehring.
Scarcely having recovered from the terrible war of 1914, the world is again plunged into bloody conflict as these lines are written. Only God knows what the outcome of the war will be and only God knows what is to become of our threatened civilization.
We have our automobiles, radios, cinemas, and many luxuries, but the world seems to be getting away from God and His Christ and as a people we are not happy. There is unrest and selfishness on all sides in the world today. In Russia, Mexico, and Germany, men have risen up against God and His Christ, but even the gates of hell will not prevail against the Church which Christ founded upon Peter. Our present Pontiff is striving hard to restore Peace and he is even known as the Pope of Peace."
Later that year on December 8, both the Feast of the Immaculate Conception and final dedication of the completed auditorium–church and school were celebrated, with Archbishop McNicholas officiating. And in the summer of 1941 the Ohio State Superintendent of Public Building made his inspection. He stated that St. James was the most up–to–date of all the public, private, and parochial schools in the state. He then topped that with the comment that while the building has cost $225,000, it could not be duplicated for less than $1,250,000 because of spiraling wartime costs.
In 1940 the Archbishop had advised not selling the Crescent Avenue holdings at an offer considerably less than the 1939 appraisal of $35,000. That property then became "Bingo Headquarters," with attendance increasing so greatly that eventually the game was being played in the old school's auditorium, in the first–floor classrooms, in the basement, in the former rectory (which had also served as a school annex in the past), and even in the desanctified church. The monetary miracle that resulted from these ordinary games proved to be a singular contribution to completion of an extraordinary St. James complex.
In 1943, a Pike parcel of land 100.67 ft. x 125 ft. was bought from Ida Richards for $5000, and here Fr. Walsh centered the attractive World War II Memorial to all the youthful parishioners who served and died in that bitter struggle.
He recorded in 1948: Students: 177 boys, 167 girls. Teaching Staff: eight sisters at $500 each annually, two lay teachers at $1500 each. Parishioners: 598 Catholic families, 102 mixed. Baptisms: 144 infants, 16 adults. Marriages: 15 Catholic, 9 mixed. Converts: 6 men, 10 women. Deaths: 20.
While two additional assistants had served with this pastor – Fr. Alfred Powers and Fr. Richard Wilhelm, Fr. Walsh's limitless energies continually propelled him into spiritual, social, and athletic activities. He had already backed a successful War Bond Drive. He began a St. John Bosco Club for "his boys," in whom he perceived priestly potential, and met with them regularly on the third floor of the rectory, where he had installed recreational equipment. He supported the girls' Socialiers in their activities. He published the St. James of the Valley Courier, a small, monthly booklet. A popular, extroverted leader and inherent ecumenist, he was the first to celebrate a mixed Nuptial Mass in the sanctuary instead of in the sacristy. Another first was the 1948 Application of Aggregation to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, later signed in 1949 by Secretary William Twohig. Other members of the charter group were Edward Grannen, President; Ben Knueven, Vice President; Clif Obermeyer, Treasurer; and Messrs. John Benken, Frank Bittner, Ray Grandfield, Bill McNamara, Tom Milet, Bob O'Brien, Tony Rape, Tony Roettle and Joe Wright. Founded in Paris, in 1833, members have but one goal – relief of the spiritual and corporal necessities of the destitute and sick. Through the years, without recognition – which they reject – there has always been a small, dedicated corps of St. James parishioners ready to respond promptly and ecumenically to any legitimate plea for help.
Fr. Walsh loved his parish intensely and his church fervently. There was a vibrant bond between parishioners and this pastor, a small, dynamic priest, well–liked throughout the community. Rev. Stridsberg of the Episcopal Church was a close friend, whom Fr. Walsh consoled when the minister's son was killed in the war. He enjoyed festivals and parties, and it was at one of these that his parishioners gave him a Chrysler New Yorker. With many achievements to his credit, he himself ranked tops his successfully encouraging and guiding several St. James lads into the seminary and eventual priesthood.
In 1952, Fr. Walsh was assigned to Sacred Heart Church in Dayton, and Msgr. Matthias Heyker left Sacred Heart assigned to St. James in Wyoming. Fr. Raymond Wiemeyer later buried Fr. Walsh when he died in Dayton, but he remains vividly alive in memories of St. James parishioners in Wyoming.
Msgr. Heyker (ordained in 1925 in Covington) was pro tempore pastor. He epitomized the Catholic priest –– a handsome, white–haired gentleman oratorically articulate with a fine voice for singing the Mass. He had been extensively educated in Rome, and was especially fond of the small children at St. James, but because of failing health he left the parish to become chaplain at the Fontbonne and Fenwick until his death in October 1953, when only 58 years old.
Our scholar pastor
Fr. William A. Shine, a twin born in 1896 in Price Hill, (ordained in 1919), entered St. Mary Seminary from grade school, then attended Angelica University in Rome, later winning his doctorate at Fordham University. He also studied Hebrew at Hebrew Union College, and Rabbis often bemoaned the fact that a Catholic priest's knowledge of the Hebraic language sometimes exceeded their own. He had been a highly regarded professor for 22 years at St. Gregory Seminary, where he taught Scripture, Apologetics, History of Philosophy, and Hebrew. Among his students were Archbishop Paul Liebold, several bishops, and almost every diocesan priest ordained before 1949, and for 42 years he served on the Archdiocesan Tribunal. With several years' experience as both an assistant and parish pastor, he arrived in 1953 at St. James superbly equipped intellectually and spiritually. However, being an introvert, at first he was actually shy and as a result seemed reserved.
Authorized by the archbishop to enlarge the school, he accomplished that by 1955. A couple years later, after buying the Richards' home next to the church, remodeling was essential on the north side of the house so that the main entrance could face Linden Lane, with driveways added. He took care of that. The archbishop then suggested changing the rectory to the Linden Lane house so that the Notre Dame teaching sisters could occupy the vacated rectory as their new convent. Father promptly complied.
But the late fifties and early sixties were filled with set–backs. With the school now enlarged, the auditorium–church was too small. Parishioners had been forced to stand in aisles or sit in the corridor outside the church door. Masses were changed to six, eight, nine, ten, with two 11:00 masses (one downstairs in the little chapel) and a final 12:15 mass upstairs. The parking area was a perpetual traffic jam on Sundays. Then Crescent Avenue property had to be sold to Dr. J. Stewart Mathews for only $21,000 instead of the earlier appraisal of $35,000. There were parish boundary differences. Increased school enrollment necessitated renovating the cafeteria and buying additional facilities. The schoolyard required blacktopping. New church chimes and a new boiler were essential, etc., etc.
But 1962 brought St. James' Diamond Jubilee, and a jubilant year it was. There began a renaissance of spiritual, physical, and educational activity. Seven different volunteer mothers faithfully worked their monthly assigned days in the busy cafeteria. Organizations, especially the St. Ann Sodality and the Parent–Teacher Association were so enriching and innovative that newspapers featured lengthy articles about exciting programs at St. James of the Valley. Commemorative plates marking the historic year were ordered and sold. A spiritual bouquet accumulated by the school children was written in gold calligraphy and sent in a pristine white leather folder to beloved Pope John XXIII (then seriously ill). And a major project was a comprehensive census–directory of the parish undertaken by the High School Youth Club. It listed accurately a total of 813 families.
Big plans are launched
In 1964, Fr. Shine's quinquennial report to the deanery detailed every aspect of St. James parish, adding, "No debt." In response to "Outline the needs of your parish as you judge them and plan to fulfill them," Fr. Shine answered, "Have hope of a church building; laying aside a building fund."
In 1966, Most Reverend Edward A. McCarthy, chairman of the Archdiocesan Building Commission, wrote Fr. Shine recommending Edward J. Schulte as architect of the church–to–be. Final authorization covered General Contractor P.J. Beischel, $398,153; Plumbing Contractor Kerrigan, $12,840; Heating/Ventilating/Air Conditioning Geiler, $57,940; Electrical Contractor Bucheye, $31,544, with the total cost estimated at $650,000. (Mr. Schulte died the following year, so a St. James parishioner, Robert Christian of L.F. Cotter and Associates, assumed architectural responsibilities.)
Later that year, in December, a stunning 9 x 12–inch folder presented a three–year "ST. JAMES OF THE VALLEY BUILDING & OPERATIONAL FUND DRIVE." On the front was an artist's depiction of the "temporary auditorium" church, the school, and the proposed new church. Inside were explanatory paragraphs detailing the goals to be met, concluding with, "The total cost of the new church including furnishings will be $700,000. Remodeling the existing hall, $25,000. Total Capital Fund Cost, $725,000. We have on hand for this purpose $400,000. We need a total FUND DRIVE AMOUNT of $325,000."
Pastor and parish went to work. A big, beautiful, new church! A REAL church! They worked hard. They gave hard. They prayed hard. The Parish Board of Education, newly formed in 1967 added stimulus. With a competent, educated laity to help develop and evaluate parish policy, several worthwhile projects were implemented. Organizations and supplementary committees united in efforts to advance the building fund. It was a stimulating period, but sometimes confusing with changes resulting from the Second Vatican Council which would entail liturgical modifications in the new church.
On August 6, 1967, after a 3:30 p.m. Special Mass, the pastor, religious, choir, and parishioners active in organizations formed an offertory procession from the temporary church to the adjacent site where the new, REAL church was to be built. William Sullivan was Master of Ceremonies. Fr. Shine blessed the site, and a joyous expectancy was almost palpable.
Dedication of a new St. James
Tying in with the fund drive during the 1968–69 year, an attractive handbook was published, which dealt with every major and minor aspect of the school ––faculty, pastor, room mothers, insurance, bus service, cafeteria, uniforms, testing, discipline, curriculum, extra curricula, Jr. Great Book, special services, library, the year's calendar, and even PTA conferences.
This fund drive, headed by Messrs. Christian, Bottenhorn, Crotty, Bates, Albers, Gill, Cooper, Hailstones, Klingensmith, and Fr. Shine, ended in 1969 with $259,994 pledged, along with $2,499 from anonymous donors. And more was to come. That same year the refurbishing of the old, temporary church began.
"The people and priests of Saint James Congregation would be pleased to have you join with them in the Dedication of the St. James New Church Sunday afternoon the 13th of April at 4:30 o'clock. His Grace, the Most Reverend Karl J. Alter, D.D., LL.D., Archbishop of Cincinnati will preside and celebrate the Mass."
This was the attractive, formal invitation, with an enveloped response card, which went to all the clergy of the archdiocese. That same Sunday's church bulletin contained the following paragraph, "DEDICATION DAY, today: This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad. Alleluia! Ceremony of Dedication:
1.) Archbishop blesses the outside of the building. (All people are outside, in front of the church)
2.) Entrance into church.
3.) Litany.
4.) Blessing of interior of the church.
5.) Mass follows."
This was Father's succinct reminder about the great day, the culmination of years of praying, hoping, helping. But he knew it was enough, for all the preliminary preparations and logistics had long inundated the Dedication Chairman, Patricia White, Fr. Shine, associate pastors, and most of the parishioners, young and older, to such a degree that no aspect of the celebration at both St. James and the Wyoming Country Club was unknown to anyone. And so the new, REAL St. James of the Valley was blessed and dedicated to its patron saint, St. James the Greater, Apostle and Martyr, 12 B.C. – 44 A.D., and to God the Father of all.
"How lovely is Thy dwelling place, 0 Lord of Hosts!" (Psalm 84:1)
The following Sunday, Fr. Shine and the assistant pastors, Fr. Edward Trippel and Fr. Richard McKenny, with the Sisters of Notre Dame and St. James parishioners, invited Valley residents to an Open House. Visitors approaching the church were especially impressed by the carved symbols of the Holy Trinity high on the facade, and by the gloriously unique windows depicting the Paschal Mystery, designed by Gabriel Loire of Chartres, and made in France. Commissioned personally by Fr. Shine, this renowned artist always destroyed his models to prevent any duplications of his work. Observers also marveled at how expertly the new St. Meinrad limestone and red mission tile roofing matched the older buildings. Inside, everyone again beheld the artistic genius revealed by exquisite abstractions in windows of the Baptistry, Nave, and Clerestory. And the patron saint stood tall in front of the church, sculpted by Walter Driesbach, noted artist long affiliated with the Art Department of Mount St. Joseph on the Ohio. The veniality of parish pride was forgivable.
The memorable Miss Newton
But parish pride cannot be repressed. This same year "This Is Your Life" was a memorable gala for a memorable teacher, Miss Mary Edith Newton, who taught at St. James from 1926–46 and 1964–69. She exemplified the teacher every student loves – and learns from – and proof of that was evidenced by all the guests. They were relatives, friends, associates, priests, Notre Dame sisters, students, their parents, and Msgr. Ryan, head of all Archdiocesan Parochial Schools.
The early seventies were serene. No building to be built. No devastating debts. The fierce tornado of 1969 had left St. James untouched. Teaching salaries had mounted to $86,269 for a year, with the parish paying $69,441 and the state paying the balance. Principal Sr. Paula Marie and Sr. Helen were given retirement receptions. When all the Notre Dame Sisters at their Provincial House held a three–day Open House honoring the 150–year celebration of the diocese, many parishioners first learned that the Cincinnati diocese, in 1821, had originally encompassed the entire state of Ohio. Edward A. Sauer, Richard E. Weber, and Paul H. Net–tleton were named "Authorized Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati," the first in this ministry. Numerous men of the parish began serving as lectors. The organist, James Gleeson, promoted an unusual contest open to all St. James students, current or graduated. The winning original, doctrinally correct melody and words were to be performed by the choir in an Easter celebration. With years of hard work behind them, parishioners were relaxing.
When Fr. Shine announced his retirement, a farewell party was given at the Wyoming Civic Center on — when else? –– Father's Day, June 17, 1973, and his parish "children" crowded the hall. They well knew that inside this feisty Irishman was a gentle soul loving all who shared his devotion to the church. He especially loved children, flowers, animals, and his ever–present rosary. Basically a traditional priest, he struggled loyally to adjust to Vatican II, and worked spiritually, intellectually, artistically –– even physically ~ for his church, giving totally.
Almost 92, the oldest priest in the diocese, almost as old as his parish, Fr. Shine died during its Centennial Year. He had been saying daily Mass at Resurrection Church until the day he entered University Hospital. His nephew, Fr. Edward J. Shine, was co–celebrant with diocesan priests attending the Mass of Christian Burial at St. James, with Archbishop Daniel E. Pilarczyk.
One of Father's final remarks before he died February 19 was that his happiest days had been those spent at St. James of the Valley. His twin sister, Sr. Mary William, was with him at the end, as at the beginning.
Associate pastors during those twenty years were: Frs. Edward Trippel, Richard McKenny, Raymond Wiemeyer, Paul Edrich, Carl Luehrs, Mark Gratsch, George Klein, Robert Mauntel, Bernard Felix, Elmer Griewe, and Donald Noll.
Our Monsignor pastor
Born in Cincinnati in 1914, Right Reverend Msgr. Hubert T. Unger (ordained in May 1940, by Archbishop McNicholas at St. Monica's Pro–Cathedral while St. Peter in Chains was being repaired) came to St. James of the Valley, June 23, 1973.
Consistently active in community work, he had been a board member of the Community Chest and the Southwest Ohio Lung Association; a committee member on the Community Chest's Social Planning; past chairman of the Department of Social Services of the Catholic Conferences of Ohio; Director of the St. Vincent de Paul Society Central Council, and involved in the Cincinnati Catholic Charities for 31 years. In 1960, Pope John XXIII had named him a Papal Chamberlain, and he was reappointed to this honor in 1963. A formidable background.
Without pastoral experience, however, Fr. Unger felt a normal trepidation at being appointed to a prominent parish like St. James, especially when the assistant priest, Fr. Trippel, could remain for only a month. Fortunately, Fr. Kenneth Schoettmer arrived about the same time, and the new pastor faced no financial crisis or pressing pastoral problems. His problems were at first of a practical nature, dealing with remodeling, modernizing, repairing, and generally improving the older buildings inside and outside.
In 1976 a survey of parish families with small children indicated the feasibility of a kindergarten, so he provided an enlarged space to accommodate the little newcomers. Importantly, there was excellent rapport between priest and the school principal, Sr. Margaret, and they both enjoyed productive communication with the teachers, agreeing to enhance instruction in science and math.
That same year marked parishioner John Cooper's ordination by Archbishop Bernardin for service to the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. John received the order of Deaconate, and became the parish's first permanent deacon.
Fr. Ken proved to be an invaluable assistant. He and Fr. Unger, with contrasting personalities, temperaments, and philosophies, established a good relationship. Fr. Unger was the conservative traditionalist, while his associate was the liberal, relishing any opportunity to experiment in new directions. Because Fr. Ken's boundless enthusiasm and innovation were dedicated to the church both priests loved, Fr. Unger gave him a loose rein.
Vatican II sparks new involvement
In 1977, Anne Harmon started what became the Annual Advent Visitation, with parishioners taking gifts and gentle attention to patients at Drake Hospital. There was a "Special Repair and Energy Saving Appeal," with a cooperative response from the congregation. Parishioners were becoming more receptive to liturgical changes. There were well–planned fund–raisers, spiritual celebrations, and more community oriented programs. The pastor began the Legion of Mary, and his associate celebrated special Children's Masses. Fred Meyer's and Joan Holiday's Guitar Groups were revitalized. Music changed. Recognition of one's neighbors in church as a parish family produced the warmth of smiles, handclasps, sharing, and new friendships. Audrey Cornell and Patricia Murphy were St. James representatives to the Valley Interfaith Food & Clothing Center. Fr. Ken worked with delinquent youth at the finally established Burns House, and Judy Houser organized a religious education pro gram with facets for all parish groups and ages. Activity abounded.
But the energizing Fr. Ken, in July 1980, was assigned to the Newman Center at the University of Cincinnati and St. George Church. Pastor and parishioners planned a Potluck Supper, a Special Prayer Service, and a Desert–Reception Farewell for him. Another expression of appreciation was a generous tribute from Fr. Linger, complimenting his young associate for the numerous ways he had enriched the parish.
Fr. Robert Mooney arrived a month later, a jovial Irishman, bringing with him his banjo and a great love for church, song, and music, but his sojourn at St. James lasted barely a year.
Msgr. Unger had been suffering physical problems for some time, so he was happy to welcome Fr. Michael U. Pucke as his associate pastor, August 14, 1981. And in 1982 he won additional assistance when Louis Rekers, after ordination by Archbishop Bernardin, became St. James' second permanent deacon. Another parishioner, Helene McGrath, was among the first group of Cincinnati women affirmed in the lay pastoral ministry program, after a two–year course at the Atheneaum of Ohio.
The St. James Journal became an especially comprehensive four–page bulletin issued the first of every month, with a convenient insert calendar. Another parish aid was Fr. Unger's card file, listing job opportunities from domestic to professional for the benefit of unemployed parishioners. He also designed an informative bulletin–like introduction to St. James of the Valley Parish, which was handed to every person coming to the office to register. This folder included a brief history, and listed all organizations and services, inviting the newcomer's participation.
Another important, attractive addition was the pastor's permanently installed sign on the front lawn of the church. It gave the complete Mass Schedule, and a plaque affixed to its side is inscribed, "Because the family of this parish cared and prayed, God blessed me with health. In gratitude I promise daily remembrances in all my Masses. Hubert T. Unger."
Other signs of change intangible — were subtly felt. Betty Kennedy had retired as church secretary, and was succeeded by Peggy Willenbrook. When Sr. Margaret Becker, the last of many outstanding religious principals left, Mr. David Reker became the first lay principal of the church. Mary Lou Haglage later assumed that position in 1984. The Notre Dame de Namur teaching sisters were being steadily and necessarily replaced by lay teachers. And while both pastor and associate had been looking forward to programs related to "Christ Renews His Parish" after receiving the U.S. Bishops' pastoral letter, it became apparent, with Fr. Unger's recurring hospitalization, that many plans would have to be postponed or curtailed.
New responsibilities follow
Parish Council and the Finance Committee then assumed responsibility for the renewal at St. James, and established three goals, which were: First: clarification of the parish financial situation. To this end volunteer census takers contacted every family in the parish and at the same time asked them to fill out secretly a commitment card indicating the amount they were willing to pledge toward full cancellation of the existent deficit.
Second: hiring a full–time Music Director. This was implemented when a parishioner, Mary Lee Stallsmith, talented and trained as a singer, was employed.
Third: organizing new groups to minister to the needs of parishioners. This goal, however, could not be realized at the time without burdening an incapacitated pastor and his associate beset by routine parish business.
On December 7, 1984, well aware that his retirement was approaching, Fr. Unger offered a Special Mass of Thanksgiving for his blessings at St. James. He expressed gratitude for the parishioners' understanding during his extended impairment, and presented to the congregation a large plaque of the Virgin Mary as a partner to one of St. Joseph already decorating the church.
Fond farewells
Both Fr. Unger and Fr. Mike were given farewell parties in 1985, only a week apart. The pastor's was June 23, doubly special for him since it was also the 45th anniversary year of his ordination. After an Open House in the Parish Hall, he was honored with a dinner at the Wyoming Civic Center.
Fr. Mike's party was a pizza picnic on the rectory lawn six days later. Fr. Unger, wishing to thank his youthful associate for all his help, generously stated that for the last two years Fr. Mike had actually been pastor of St. James in reality, if not in title.
Msgr. Unger is a gentle man, a gentleman, mild, modest, giving and forgiving, reserved and tolerant. He loved St. James and enjoyed living in a community like Wyoming after 31 years at the Fenwick in downtown Cincinnati. Although content with his books, his TV, himself, and his spiritual reflections, he is always delighted to welcome visitors, and feels blessed to be able to say daily Mass in his Hamilton retirement apartment. He was also pleased to be able to leave for St. James more than $335,000 in reserve at the chancery from a parish bequest, plus $15,000 left unrestricted from Fr. Shine's pastorate.
A new era begins
The summer of 1985 was a Transitional time with a capital "T". Fr. Carl K. Moeddel was named pastor, effective August 1. Fr. Paul Friedrichs was appointed full–time associate, beginning July 11. Msgr. Linger and Fr. Mike were leaving. "Hello's" and Goodbye's" seemed constant.
Pastor Moeddel (ordained 1962) came with an impressive curriculum vitae. His experience, while mostly limited to Cincinnati, is unlimited. Within the archdiocese he was active in ecumenism, education, and finance. He had served as president of both the Ohio Council of Churches and the Metropolitan Area Religious Coalition of Cincinnati. Having also served as an associate pastor and as a pastor, he came to St. James of the Valley with the experience to lead a prominent parish. Born in 1937, his 50th birthday AND the 25th anniversary of his ordination coincide with the Centennial Year, another evidence of management expertise!
Associate Pastor Paul Friedrichs wrote in the July 21 church bulletin that he had been a teacher at Elder and LaSalle High Schools, a resident associate pastor, and as excited about coming to St. James as a full–time associate.
Encouraged by Fr. Moeddel's administrative leadership and charisma, plus Fr. Paul's interest and enthusiasm, the involved and committed lay leadership of the parish welcomed the new pastoral team with warmth and support. And having inherited a strong religious community, well–prepared to move ahead, the new pastor and his assistant felt the responsibility to implement plans already in place – to challenge a responsive parish to further renewal and growth.
The Finance Committee presented Fr. Moeddel a 1984–85 financial report indicating an operating surplus, along with a balanced budget for 1985–86. The Building and Grounds Committee, having completed a recent review of all physical facilities, proposed a plan of repairs and improvements, and recommended a study of the rectory and the convent, specifically regarding their long–term usage. Parish Council submitted plans for Parish Spiritual renewal, while other commissions and committees prepared proposals and recommendations.
The first year of the new pastorate, therefore, was witness of a variety of activities: re–structuring and re–vitalization of the Worship Commission; implementation of proposals from the Building and Grounds Committee; initiation of plans for Centennial celebrations; hiring of a new Music Director; organization of a new choir ... all accompanied by much learning on the part of the new pastoral staff.
In January 1986, Parish Council recommended a change of usage for the convent and rectory, which meant switching the residences and renovating both. History was to be repeated when the old farm house, now on the National Historical Register, was to become once again the rectory. This move was accomplished in August and September, with more than 50 parishioners participating in the work.
Neighborhood group meetings in various homes led to additional recommendations and new ideas for the parish community. Another "new" in the summer of 1986 was Victoria Earl, who became St. James Director of Religious Education, and with the momentous New Year — 1987! — Mr. Richard Schaech was hired as Director of Music.
Renewed
Major plans for the Centennial Year had already been outlined by the Centennial Steering Committee (Dede Mallof, Tom Obert, Denis Holtmeier, Hope Nettleton) around three major celebrations: first, in January, an Ecumenical/lnterfaith Service; second, in May, a Parish Homecoming; third, in September, a Mass to be celebrated by Archbishop Daniel E. Pilarczyk. In addition, a Centennial Fund Drive was devised to cover the renovation of several areas of the church, with a $100,000 goal in thanksgiving for 100 years of blessings. Two other projects were a Centennial Parish Directory and a Memorabilia Gallery.
The parish had achieved "staying in the black" for fiscal 1985–86, and projected a balanced budget for 1986–87. Challenged by a stimulating variety of activities, parishioners were responding generously with their time and talents to provide additional parish ministries.
Then ... finally! ... January 11 ... 1987! ... and the first ...
ST. JAMES OF THE VALLEY CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION!
"With trumpets and the sound of horn, make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord!" (Psalm 98:6)
An inspiring Ecumenical/lnterfaith Service heralded a new century. The Art and Environment Committee of the Worship Commission produced immense banners to hang in the church to mark the Centennial Year. In attractively printed programs, Fr. Moeddel expressed gratitude to Protestant and Jewish neighbors whose collaboration made this event so memorable. *
Participating in the service were Rabbi Solomon Greenberg, Rev. John Lake, Rev. David Brown, Rev. Spenser Simrill, Rev. Paul Miller, Cantor Thomas Sherwood, Fr. Moeddel, and Fr. Friedrichs. Mary Lee Stallsmith directed a joint choir of the participating congregations, and St. James' new Director of Music, Richard Schaech, provided the organ accompaniment.
"An Outburst of Joy" by the combined church choirs of Wyoming Presbyterian, Wyoming Baptist, Friendship United Methodist, Ascension–Holy Trinity Episcopal, and St. James churches, accompanied by the combined hand–bell choirs of Wyoming Baptist and Ascension–Holy Trinity climaxed the service. After a "Joyful, Joyful" recessional, jubilant friends gathered in the school cafeteria for an informal reception with refreshments.
The Centennial Fund Drive approaches its goal, and the objectives of the drive: new air–conditioning for the church; improved sound system; new bells; sanctuary renovation; new carpeting; enclosed choir area; etc. are gradually being realized.
Centennial!
The Centennial Year blooms. On May 17, the anticipated St. James Homecoming teemed with "auld acquaintance" and happy sharing. A reception followed Mass concelebrated by Msgr. Hubert Linger, Frs. Kenneth Schoettmer, Robert Obermeyer, Robert Buschmiller, Carl Moeddel, and Paul Friedrichs.
Nostalgia enveloped everyone viewing an extensive historical exhibit arranged by Donna Schott in the rectory's Memorabilia Gallery, scheduled to remain open into September, with coffee and doughnuts offered to all visitors in the dining room. This exuberant parish reunion concluded with a fascinating St. James "Historical Walk from Now to Then," led by Jenni McCauley and Ann Louise Helmsderfer from the present church on Springfield Pike to the site of the little 1887 church at Cooper/Crescent Corner.
The St. James of the Valley 100–year anniversary comes to full flower with a September 19 Dinner Dance and a September 20 Special Sunday Mass with Archbishop Pilarczyk, to be followed by a Parish Picnic on the church grounds.
In conclusion, dear readers – and we hope you have traveled the century with us, empathizing with our tribulations and triumphs – we find it fitting to quote our pastor, Fr. Moeddel:
"In our Centennial Year, we are already anticipating our future as well as remembering our past. We plan to enhance the 'church' which is our blessed community of faith. A Parish Mission/Retreat is scheduled in October to insure that we will start the second hundred years, continuing the tradition of the first hundred years, by walking with the Lord."
"For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations." (Psalm 100:5)